Star-Crossed Lovers Of The 1850s (JJK ff)

CHAPTER 17

Louisa slipped out of the ceremony unnoticed, her heart racing with anticipation as she swiftly made her way through the dimly lit corridors. Her silk gown rustled softly against the marble floor, echoing the turmoil brewing within her.

She sought out Ema, her loyal and trusted maid, who was stationed in a nearby anteroom, busily engaged in adjusting the delicate embroidery on a nearby garment. "Ema," Louisa whispered urgently, her voice barely audible over the distant music.

Ema turned, surprise etched on her face, her eyes widening as she took in Louisa's determined expression. "Where are you going, milady?" Ema asked, her voice tinged with concern.

Louisa hesitated, choosing her words carefully. "If anyone asks, tell them I stepped out for some fresh air. Keep everyone occupied, and make sure Edward doesn't become suspicious." Ema nodded, her expression understanding.

"But, milady, where are you really going?" Ema pressed, her curiosity evident.

Louisa's voice barely rose above a whisper. "I'm going to Jungkook. I need to ensure he's alright after what happened."

Ema's eyes widened further, her face pale with concern. "What if anyone finds out, milady?" she whispered, her voice trembling.

Louisa's gaze locked onto Ema's, her jaw set in determination. "I'll return as soon as possible," she assured, her voice firm but low.

"I must see Jungkook, Ema. I need to know he's safe." Louisa's words were laced with conviction.

Ema nodded, though her expression remained anxious. "Be careful, milady. Your absence will arouse suspicion."

"I'll manage," Louisa said, her voice steady. "Just keep everyone occupied."

"I'll show you the way," Ema offered, already rising from her seat. Louisa shook her head firmly. "No, Ema. Stay here and cover for me. Make sure no one suspects anything."

Ema nodded reluctantly, her eyes filled with worry. "Be careful, milady. You're taking a great risk." Louisa smiled faintly, her heart pounding in her chest.

With a final glance, Louisa slipped into the night, leaving Ema to her duties.

Louisa navigated through the darkness, her silk gown rustling against the rugged stone walls as she made her way towards the worker's living quarters.

Louisa walked towards the workers' living quarters but deliberately avoided the main entrance. She knew that other workers and guards would be stationed there, and they would likely catch her and become suspicious about why she was visiting the worker's quarters.

She didn't want to draw attention to herself, so she turned down a narrow alleyway instead. The torches on the walls cast weird shadows, making her feel a little scared. But she kept going.

As she approached the back of the workers' quarters, Louisa remembered something Jungkook had told her. She recalled the number of his quarters - seventeen.

She pushed open the creaky back door and slipped inside. The hallway was dimly lit and very quiet. Usually, there would be people walking around, talking and laughing. But tonight, everyone was at the manor celebrating.

Louisa walked down the hallway until she reached Jungkook's quarters. She knocked softly on the door.

Louisa knocked softly on the door, her knuckles barely grazing the wooden surface, but when the door didn't open, she gently turned the handle, finding to her relief that it was unlocked. She pushed the door open and stepped inside, her eyes scanning the dimly lit room.

Her breathing was heavy, her chest rising and falling with each labored breath, as she struggled to compose herself. Her face was etched with distress, her brow furrowed and her lips pursed in concern.