Revenge of Duchess

chapter 16 _ Ball of games

Brimhood looked grand after a long while. Since the death of last duke, nothing was celebrated there. Slowly dukedom is returning to old self. Cassandra worked like witch. Brimhood got a new lease of life. In a short span of time she announced a ball to welcome new duke of Brimhood. And Cassandra did her magic well. She painted walls; brought new furniture's and hired new staff. She was ready playing her of hostess again as duchess of Brimhood. And her new husband to town. People were obviously curious who got most precious prize of town.

Benedict knew his new title come with a lot of baggage and dangers. Dangers that were Gregory Winston Once mentioned. Benedict looked at Henry's large oil painting in the hall. Henry's picture oozed life. As if Henry was watching him. If Henry had given his place in society and Cassandra's life, then it must have a purpose.

As Benedict descended from stairs he watched Brimhood is finally getting back to its grandeur. It is his welcome ball. And also introduce Bianca into society in new manner. But Beatrice was missing. He felt guilty for treating his sister like that. But Benedict felt lost. All who dear to him are changed sides. He felt alone. He was now confused. No idea what made him talk to her like that. He couldn't fathom the idea that his whole family is now with Cassandra that to his expense.

He watched Cassandra arranged everything well. In fact perfect.

Guests started arriving slowly. People talked to him with respect. They bowed him. Unknown titled men talked to him like that have known him for years. He was no longer underdog.
Bianca was enjoying her new status. Her new gown was expensive, thanks to Cassandra.
She is surrounded by suitors like files unlike last time where she was barely noticeable. One good thing that was made his heart happy that at least Bianca won't suffer Beatrice's fate.

Money and status changes everything. Even his mother is enjoying her new life. She got new friends. People who had avoided her like a plague till yesterday now competing to get attention. Those who have had gossiped behind her now acting to be her best friends. But she is Mary Hart after all. She will play her cards well this time.

Cassandra on the other hand was smiling. So does her friends.

They were laughing at her jokes. Gregory Winston stood there along with them. When the music began she began to dance with one of her friends. Benedict was sure he was a titled man. He felt jealous. He waited till the dance over. He can't act rude and jealous husband in front of all these people. But in reality he was.

He walked towards them. Slowly and gently............

"May I dance with my wife" Benedict asked politely.

The man bowed left with a smile and joined the crowd.

Cassandra looked at him. She knew what he felt. Her eyes always read his mind. As he extended his hands towards her she accepted him gracefully.
They danced in silence when next song played. He held her hand tight. It hurt her. But Cassandra did not utter a word. She played the game with him.

None of them didn't spoke anything. But feelings were on air. So does the sparks. Benedict could hear her raising heart beats. She was nervous too. He can feel that too.

Jealousy....

Insecure.....

Love

Obsession

And

Mistrust.....

Many emotions are gone through him in that few minutes.

Crowd applauded when they finish the dance. He was surrounded by many people. In between Cassandra slowly slipped away. He saw her from distance. He could not escape as many people came to talk to him. And his eyes were searching for her. Like a hawk.

And he saw her afar .... To away from him.

There was someone with her.

A man, who resembled Gregory Winston somehow.
They both disappeared in the corridor. Benedict felt restless. He lost control on himself.

She is his Cassandra now. She has to behave herself.

As his wife. For a moment he forgets all his arguments and challenges with Cassandra. He felt like his obsessions are back now.

He ran angrily to catch her red handed. Benedict reached the corridor and wondered where they could be disappearing. He roamed around leaving the busy crowd behind.

Then he heard something...............

Someone was moaning. It was high.

Sound of a man and woman's intense love making.

Now Benedict lost it completely.

He was about to burst open the door. He felt a hand on him as he turned back.

"You.... "

Next Update will coming soon. Thank you all for being with me