Finding my Wings

~9

        Time seemed to pass strangely in this wonderful place. A few days turned into a week, and a week into a few. Until already it had been a month. After some time I knew for a fact Uncle wouldn't come for me. He probably thought I was dead in an alleyway for all he cared. Somehow knowing he didn't care made me relieved.

        Everyday was a new adventure with Tristan. We’d find the strangest ways to entertain ourselves. Running through the halls or picking the best and prettiest flowers for his mother. Or climbing the giant tree and swinging onto the second floor balcony. I felt like a kid. We’d mess with Maddy by moving things in the kitchen when her back was turned. After maybe the third time she could sense when we did it, but she must’ve found it as amusing as it was for us.

        Other times we’d find a new room in the vast mansion and make a game out of the things we’d find in it. One afternoon we found a musty old guest room near the west end of the house. White sheets covered the furniture like ghostly figures and dust created fine layers on every surface. But upon closer inspection we found a chest full of old clothes you would imagine world war II people wearing.

        “Oh my god it’s beautiful!” Under a layer of thin cloth was a maroon dress embellished with fine crystals and sleeves made of delicate lace. The skirt was light and airy, reminding me of a butterfly’s wing when I twirl it around. “I have to try it on!”

        Tristan laughed and swung a top hat onto his head. He looked absolutely dashing. “Then by all means, my lady, simply move into the next room and dawn on that beautiful gown.”

        I giggled and did just that. The dress slipped smoothly over my shoulders and hugged my waist in just the right way. I felt like a century old movie star.

        The moment I walked into the room, Tristan’s mouth dropped. His pale cheeks reddened and he did his best to tear his eyes away from the dress and back to my face. I was somewhat pleased in a big way. He finished buttoning before clearing his throat and bowing low. “May I have this dance my lady? I would be truly honored.”

        “Why of course my good sir, but there doesn’t seem to be any music playing I’m afraid.”

        In one swift movement, Tristan’s arms held my waist and he dipped me back in one sensuous move. “Who needs music?” His evil grin made me laugh. And so we danced.