Roses and Black Glass: a dark Cinderella tale (novel preview)

Chapter Four

                                          Roses and Black Glass: A Dark Cinderella Tale 

                                                                      Chapter Four 

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                Rain came down heavily that night upon the roof of the Madison manor.  A fire was going in the main parlor and all four of the house’s occupants were gathered there.  Anna braided her long, graying hair while Isabella trimmed her nails and Charlotte sat on the posh red sofa reading a love story.  The first few rooms of the house were kept intact and all the best furniture resided within.  This was just in case someone did have to venture inside; they would not be appalled by the poverty within. 

                Cindy sat by herself in a corner, mending Charlotte’s dress.  The girl had stepped on the train and ripped the wet material when Christian helped her from the water.  Though Charlotte had been escorted home by the man in his carriage, she had felt the heat of embarrassment the whole time.  Ladies were not supposed to be clumsy.  

                “This was the most embarrassing day of my life!” Charlotte declared, closing her book in disgust. 

                “Then perhaps you shouldn’t show your face at the party tomorrow.  You wouldn’t want Christian laughing at you,” Isabella said as the rain pounded against the glass behind her. 

                “He would never laugh at me, you stupid girl!” said Charlotte angrily. “Besides, he’s promised me that I will be the one.” 

                Isabella looked up in anger.  “Like hell you are, pig!” she screeched. 

                “Ladies, please!” their mother chimed in. “You mustn’t practice these habits of speech and manner.  In good time it will all be revealed.  How many times must I tell you that it doesn’t matter which one of you it is?  Sure, Christian is an attractive young man, but it isn’t as though either of you truly love him.  Quite honestly, you shouldn’t fight like you do.” 

                Both girls fell silent at this, accepting their mother’s words.  It was true that Charlotte was only in the game for her mother’s approval and because Christian was quite handsome.  Isabella, however, had a different reason, and had neglected to tell her mother of her true feelings. 

                Isabella had been in love with Christian Charming ever since she had seen him four years ago at his brother’s birthday celebration.  She had only been sixteen, but had been the loveliest girl there.  She had danced with his brother and he had been pleased with her.  It seemed she would get his proposal, but soon after, she had seen Christian.  He had been standing against the wall, pale, tall, and broad-shouldered, scowling lightly with the most wonderful cheekbones. 

                Though she had been chosen first, she declined the proposal of his brother, only to have a chance with the younger Charming.  Her mother had been upset, but Isabella had simply explained that she had not been the one, and that there was still another brother she would try for.  Her mother had been content at this, telling her to make sure she kept this one. 

                Isabella was content, yet after today’s events she felt closer to her goal.  She had considered her afternoon for the rest of the day.  She remembered the feel of him.  There had been desire in his eyes, even if there was nothing else.  He would come to her bed tonight, and she would convince Christian that he needed her.  Yes, everything was going accordingly.