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Gorgeous Gray Eyes

“What are you doing, Vivienne La Rouge?”

Both horses halted as they pulled on the rein. She didn’t expect her mom to be home early, since she was told she’ll be at her Aunt Lydia’s; and when her mom goes there to visit, it takes until nighttime before coming home.

“Mama, you’re home early. What happened at Aunt Lydia’s?”

The woman sauntered closer. “Come down here, young lady.”

When Vivienne did as told, she was inspected. Her mother’s brows lifted, disapproving of her clothing.

“What is this you’re wearing?”

“They’re called comfortable clothes, Ma,” Vivienne replied, sighing.

“But I don’t recall buying you any of these.”

“You didn’t. They’re Victor’s,” she said pointing the guy―riding on the other horse―who smiled and nodded. “Since I can’t ride the horse properly with my dresses, I borrowed his.”

The woman was appalled; having a daughter who wears men’s clothes never crossed her mind. She doesn’t want to have one, too. She pulled her daughter into the manor, saying something about wearing someone else’s clothes as not appropriate, especially man’s clothes. She then instructed the guy to bring the horses back into the stable.

Once inside, her mother called for the maids to assist her to her room. Vivienne was brought to her room, as told, and was soon washed and dressed.

“How did the ride go today, milady?” Becky asked. She’s one of Vivienne’s maid, and her closest of all. They often talk, like now, while she brushes Vivienne’s hair. They would share secrets just like sisters would.

“It was fun, as usual. We went to the meadow and played tag. It’s funny how he can’t keep up with me when he said he played it with his brothers and sister since they were kids,” she said smiling as she remembered what they did the whole afternoon.

Becky laughed. “It’s fun, alright. Especially when you’re with someone you like.”

“Becky!”

The girl only giggled as a response. She braided Vivienne’s hair while they keep talking about the day’s events. When she yawned, Becky let her rest and went out.

The next morning was busy. They were expecting guests who were close friends of the family and preparations were made. Lord Johnson El Franco and his son, Lord Mikael El Franco will be the ones coming.

“Why do you keep fussing about this, Mama? I’m engaged to him anyway. Oww.” Her grip on the table tightened as Becky did her corset. She looks at her mother’s reflection on the mirror which paced back and forth inside her room.

“Don’t be like that, darling. You know it’s a promise your Papa made when he was still alive. He just wanted you to be in good hands,” her Mama said when she finally stopped pacing.

“And marrying Mikael El Franco is the best idea he can think of? That’s just stupid. Becky, not so tight please.”

“Yes, milady.”

*      *     *

“You look beautiful as always, Lady Vivienne,” Lord Mikael greeted as soon as he entered the manor. “You too, Lady Aurora.”