Lady Dimitrescu x female reader

73 - Unexpected Visit

In the grand hall of Dimitrescu Castle, an opulent space filled with towering pillars, polished marble floors, and high arched windows draped with crimson velvet curtains, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe despite having stood here countless times before. The chandeliers overhead emitted a soft, warm light that bathed the hall in a golden glow, casting delicate shadows that danced along the walls. Alcina's taste for grandeur was evident in every corner—from the elaborate tapestries depicting the Dimitrescu lineage to the finely crafted statues of mythical creatures guarding the entrances. This hall, more a testament to her power and influence than a mere room, now set the stage for a small gathering—a celebration, of sorts.

The long banquet table in the centre of the hall was adorned with candelabras, crystal goblets, and platters of exquisite dishes prepared for the occasion. Fine wines and spirits had been meticulously arranged, their labels reflecting Alcina's penchant for the rare and the best. A delicate aroma of roasted meats and freshly baked bread filled the air, mingling with the faint scent of roses that seemed to linger perpetually within these walls. I glanced around, noting how the flickering candlelight caught on the polished silverware and fine China, making them gleam like jewels. It was a breathtaking sight—one that spoke volumes about the mistress of this castle.

Alcina stood at one end of the hall, her daughters gathered around her like planets orbiting a radiant star. Even in this private setting, her presence commanded attention. I watched as she leaned down, murmuring something to Bela, who nodded with a proud smile. The scene was almost serene, yet it held an underlying tension—a reminder that tranquillity in this castle was always fleeting. Florence shifted beside me, drawing my gaze. Her dark eyes flickered with a mixture of curiosity and amusement as she looked up at me.

"You're staring"

she teased lightly, the corner of her lips twitching in a knowing smile. I chuckled softly, shaking my head.

"Can you blame me?"

I replied, gesturing subtly towards Alcina.

"She looks... radiant tonight."

Florence followed my gaze, her expression softening.

"I suppose she does, doesn't she?"

There was a pause, then she added quietly, almost as if she were speaking to herself,

"It's rare to see her this at ease."

I nodded, feeling a warmth spread through my chest as I watched Alcina gently brush a strand of hair from Cassandra's face, her voice a low murmur that didn't reach my ears.

"The castle seems... lighter"

I said softly. Florence tilted her head, studying me thoughtfully.

"And how are you feeling, truly? I know it's been a rough few days."

"I'm fine now,"

I assured her, offering a small smile.

"Mostly recovered."

Before she could respond, a sudden, resonant laugh broke through the quiet conversation in the hall. Daniela, her youthful energy practically crackling in the air around her, had said something that caused Alcina to throw her head back in genuine laughter. The sound echoed through the hall, rich and full, and I found myself smiling wider at the sight.

"Daniela's up to her antics again, I see,"

Florence murmured with a grin.

"What do you think she said this time?"

"Knowing her? Probably something outrageously inappropriate,"

I mused with a chuckle, catching the mischievous glint in Daniela's eyes. Alcina, still smiling, turned her gaze towards me and Florence. The intensity of her golden eyes sent a shiver down my spine, though it was a pleasant sensation—one I had come to crave. She raised a perfectly sculpted brow, a playful smirk tugging at her lips.