The cool night air stung her cheeks as she stumbled through the deserted alley, her heart racing with panic. The echoes of her footsteps bounced off the walls, but no matter how fast she ran, the shadows behind her seemed to close in.
"Keep running...
Crystal buried her head into the pillow, groaning. "I don’t want to go. Dimitri has no idea the girl he claims to love just how lazy she actually is," she muttered to herself, laughing at the thought.
But then a new idea crossed her mind, making her pause. Wait… if I go, I might actually have a chance to escape.She lifted her head, considering it. He’ll be busy at the party, distracted. I could slip away without him noticing.
Her thoughts turned hopeful as she remembered her brother would be there too. What if I don’t have to escape at all? she thought. Maybe he’ll take me with him. A frown creased her forehead. "But… I’m still angry at him. He left me here last time."
Crystal sighed, trying to make sense of her frustration. "Then again, maybe it was my own fault," she murmured." I ignored his warnings and listened to Dimitri instead. No wonder he was upset."
She glanced at the dress lying on the bed and took a deep breath. "Not that I have much of a choice. If I don’t get ready myself, Dimitri will get angry... and that’s not a risk I’m willing to take. His anger is really something" She sat up and reached for the gown, examining the delicate white fabric that shimmered in the light.
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"At least he has good taste," she said quietly, letting the soft fabric slip through her fingers. She took a moment to appreciate its elegance before draping it over her arm. "I just hope the party is as sparkling as this dress. I hate being bored," she sighed, resigned to her fate as she got ready.
