Roses Are Red (book 1)

Chapter 3

Chapter 3: The Lancaster Ball

Ruby's heart pounded as she entered the grand ballroom of the Lancaster estate. The chandeliers sparkled above her, casting a soft glow over the glittering guests. It was her first time meeting Orion Lancaster in person, up-close, at least. She had seen him from afar at various social gatherings a few years ago, but now, she was being introduced as his fiancée.

She patted the delicate lace of her gown as she stepped through the doorway. Her light green eyes scanned the room, and then, from across the ballroom, she caught sight of him. Orion's gaze met hers, a smile breaking across his face like the dawn. In an instant, he began to approach her, he moved with a grace that seemed almost ethereal, laughter spilling from his lips as guests admired him.

"Lady Ruby," he said, his voice warm as he reached her. Orion greeted her with a perfect smile. His blue eyes seemed to sparkle as he took her hand and kissed it gently. "It's an honor to finally meet you properly."

Ruby felt her cheeks warm. He was everything everyone had said he would be—handsome, kind, and attentive.

"You too, Lord Orion," she managed, stealing a glance at him. He looked just like the portraits that hung in their halls.

"Please, call me Orion." His smile was genuine, a flash of perfect teeth against his delicate features.

Orion seemed nice, and he was certainly beautiful. His strawberry blond hair framed his face perfectly, and there was an air of confidence about him that made her feel a little safer. For a brief moment, Ruby wondered, just for a second, maybe this marriage wouldn't be so bad.

As the evening unfolded, Orion held her arm, guiding her through the throng of elegantly dressed guests. He introduced her to dignitaries and local elites.

"Isn't the décor splendid?" Orion gestured to the intricate arrangements of flowers that filled the hall, their fragrance mingling with the sweet notes of music drifting through the air. "And the musicians? They're truly exceptional."

"Indeed," Ruby replied, Just then, a familiar voice cut through the revelry.

"Ruby!" It was Lady Lancaster, her golden eyes sparkling as she beckoned her with a smile. "Welcome, dear! I trust you're enjoying the festivities?"

"Thank you, my lady. This is beyond lovely," Ruby responded, forcing a smile, but the glimmer of expectation behind Lady Lancaster's eyes felt like a weight pressing down on her.

The grandeur of the evening began to feel overwhelming as the night fell, the laughter and clinking glasses blending into a distant hum. Surrounded by glittering lights, Ruby felt a wave of dizziness wash over her. Ruby's heart raced, she longed for a breath of fresh air, a moment away from the overwhelming opulence.

Orion, noticing the way her complexion, stepped closer. "Lady Ruby? Are you feeling alright?" His voice was filled with concern.

"Y–yes, I think I just need a moment outside, she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper, almost lost in the extravagant atmosphere surrounding her. "Please excuse me."

She stepped outside into the cool evening air, feeling the tension release from her chest. A few seconds later, Orion caught up with her. "Would you like me to show you around the Lancaster estate? It's beautiful under the moonlight."

As they stepped out into the cool evening air, the music and laughter from the ballroom faded behind them, replaced by the soft rustle of leaves and the sweet fragrance of blooming flowers. The Lancaster land stretched before them, seemingly never-ending.

They walked in silence before Orion paused beside a wrought-iron gate, glancing back at her with a smile. "Lady Ruby, do you like secret gardens?"

Ruby's face lit up. "Yes, I do!" she said, a genuine smile breaking through her earlier unease.

Orion unlocked the gate, but before they could enter, a voice called for him from behind. "Lord Orion! We need you for a matter regarding the Order."

Orion turned to her, apologetic. "I'm sorry, Lady Ruby. Would you like me to take you back?"

She shook her head, offering a soft smile. "No, it's fine. I think I'd like to stay and explore a bit on my own. I like it here, it's beautiful."

Orion hesitated for a moment before stepping back, with a nod, he said, "Alright, I'll return as soon as I can. Please wait for me."

As he walked away, a sense of freedom washed over Ruby. The grand ballroom and its expectations faded completely, and for the first time that evening, she felt a thrill of excitement at the thought of wandering through the hidden garden.

Stepping through the gate, Ruby was immediately enchanted. The garden was a secret paradise, overflowing with vibrant roses that bloomed in every direction, their soft petals filling the air with a sweet, intoxicating fragrance. Nearby, a wooden swing hung from the branches of an old oak, swaying gently in the breeze as if it was inviting her to linger a little longer in this beautiful haven—away from everything else.

Then, from the far end of the garden, a sudden sound broke through the quiet—a soft creak. Ruby's eyes shifted, drawn toward a vine-covered door on the other end of the garden she hadn't noticed before.

The door creaked open the next moment. A figure stepped through, tall with an unsettling allure. His presence drew her gaze. The moonlight caught him as he walked, his dark red hair catching the glow. For a heartbeat, the world held its breath.

He was beautiful, mesmerizing—perhaps even more so than Orion—but he radiated a different energy, an alluring darkness that sent a chill that danced along Ruby's skin. A smirk played at the corners of his lips, a mix of mischief and something she couldn't quite place.

"Lost among the roses?" His voice was smooth, wrapping around her like the night air.

Ruby looked up to see a pair of amber-like golden irises, staring into hers.