Royalty

Eight

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A/N: I haven't updated this story in a very long time and I apologize. I had a massive spell of writers block but I've found a bit of inspiration so I should be able to keep it going. NOTE: I changed some things in the previous chapter. Not big things and it's only towards the end but in case you're sitting there like "what is happening" that is why. I hope. All right that is all. Continue.

Oh wait one more thing: songs to listen to while reading this chapter, I would recommend Gimme Gimme Gimme by ABBA or I Believe in Love from Mirror Mirror. Random songs but they fit pretty well.

My heart leapt in my throat. Waverly's back was to me and I wished desperately she would turn around so I could catch her eye.

Dominic continued leading me with perfect ease through the dance, never once faltering. Though it seemed my change in aura had not gone unnoticed. He watched me carefully.

"Is there something the matter my Lady?"

"Just feeling a bit faint. I missed dinner this evening. It must be catching up to me." I lied smoothly. Well it wasn't exactly a lie. I had missed dinner, but that was because I had quite lost my appetite.

"Well please help yourself to anything." He said leading me away from the couples and towards the table, right next to Waverly.

Dominic left me to fill my plate which I did only because he expected me to. My appetite had yet to return.

I shot a glance at Waverly and my heart sunk. It wasn't her. But it had looked so much like her. Looking at the woman next to me I now saw that her nose and eyes looked nothing like the soft features of my best friend. They were too chiseled, holding none of the youthful joy she always had.

This sudden disappointment made me realize that I had been gone for several hours now. My family and friends weren't going to be here. They were back up the winding stairs. Back in the village and in the castle.

Abandoning my plate on the table I turned to find Dominic. I had to go. My father was surely worried sick. Perhaps he had already sent out guards to search for me.

I spotted Dominic seconds later, watching me from across the ballroom. I made my way over.

"Feeling better My lady?" he asked.

"Uh yes. Much. I only just remembered now that my father must be very curious as to where I've got off to. He'll be expecting me back."

"You're leaving." It was more of a statement rather than a question.

"It's been a lovely evening but yes, I should be getting back."

"I agree. But may I have the honor of one last dance before you go?" He asked gently with a slight smile.

It couldn't hurt. Just one more.

I curtsied, lowering myself gracefully. He bowed with perfect form and took my hand. Leading me once again out onto the dance floor.

A new song began to play. A rhythmic dance my mother had taught me just a month before her death.

Dominic placed his hand on my waist as he lead me into position. I could feel the warmth of his hand even through my corset. I resisted the shivers that threatened to spill down my spine like a waterfall.