Flight of Frost and Aurora

Chapter 37

The Pentious Estate stood majestically, its grandeur illuminated by the soft glow of the snowy winter night. The intricate architecture, with its towering spires and ornate balconies, seemed to shimmer under the blanket of fresh snow that coated the grounds. Icicles hung like delicate chandeliers from the eaves, catching the light and casting a kaleidoscope of colors onto the pristine white landscape.

As the wind whispered through the trees, the faint sound of laughter and music floated from within the estate, where a grand celebration was underway. Guests adorned in elegant attire mingled in the opulent ballroom, their voices blending harmoniously with the soft strains of the musicians. The scent of pine and cinnamon wafted through the air, mingling with the rich aroma of hot cocoa and spiced wine being served at the lavishly decorated tables.

As the guests entered the grand ballroom, they were warmly greeted by the esteemed patriarch of the family, Sir Pentious, alongside his dashing son, Sir Peter, and the lovely Lady Emily, the young man's beautiful fiancée. After the initial greeting, guests mingled, dancing, dining, and engaging in lively conversations. However, one guest found little joy in the festivities.

It was Lucifer, Charlotte's father, who felt a heavy weight on his heart as he attended the ball without his daughter. His wife had convinced him that it was for the best that Charlotte stayed home after the unfortunate incident with her dress. Yet, as he took in the grandeur of the event, he couldn't shake the feeling of regret that Charlotte was missing out on such a magnificent occasion.

"We should have brought her along, Eisheth." He said.

"Nonsense husband, she would have only embarrassed herself." She replied.

Lucifer sighed, his gaze lingering on the couples twirling gracefully across the dance floor. The sight of joyful families celebrating together tugged at his heartstrings. "I don't think she would have embarrassed herself at all. In fact, I believe she would have shone brighter than anyone else here."

Eisheth rolled her eyes, her expression a mix of annoyance and condescension. "You're blinded by your affection for her. The girl is clumsy and lacks refinement. It would have been a disaster. You know how easily others can judge."

Lucifer clenched his jaw, frustration bubbling beneath the surface. "She deserves to be here, to be part of this celebration. She worked hard to help prepare for the ball, and now she's stuck at home, feeling like a prisoner while we enjoy ourselves."

"Charlotte is not a child anymore, Lucifer. She needs to learn her place," Eisheth replied, her tone firm. "You cannot coddle her forever."

Eisheth scanned the room, her keen eyes searching for any eligible bachelors who might be swayed by her charm and, more importantly, her daughter's beauty. She had always envisioned Lute marrying into wealth and prestige, and tonight's ball presented the perfect opportunity to make that happen.

"Over here, Lute! Smile more! You want them to notice you!" she urged, nudging her daughter, who stood awkwardly by a nearby table.

Lute rolled her eyes at her mother's persistent nudging. "If I smile any wider, my face will crack," she muttered under her breath. She adjusted her extravagant dress, adorned with feathers and jewels, hoping it would catch the right eye.

Eisheth, undeterred, leaned closer to a group of young men who were conversing nearby. "Gentlemen! If I may have a moment of your time. Allow me to introduce you to my lovely daughter, Lute. She's the brightest jewel of our family."

The young men exchanged glances, clearly unimpressed. "Um, we're actually quite busy," one of them said awkwardly, trying to sidestep the awkward conversation.