Secrets Of The Heart

Chapter 2. Notes and Gowns

Chapter 2. Notes and gowns
Arabelle Jean's Chambers
Grand Palace London
December 24th, 1886
Arabelle Jean

I realise very quickly that I have nothing to wear to this wretched party. I don't have a nice gown, or at least one that will make me look intriguing like the rest of the people there will. I groan loudly and fall in a heap to the window bench. A knock sounds on the door, I quickly shoot up and scramble to get it.

"Larissa! What are you doing here?" I pull Larissa into a bone crushing hug. She's been practically my only friend since I arrived here. Granted, she's the same age as my mother, but who's counting?

"I figured one of us should go to that party. So I've come to help you get dressed. Also, I have this for you." She hands me a large black box. "Ann brought it to me so that I may give it to you." I take the box and rush over to my bed. The first thing I look at is the note.

Arabelle Jean,
Enjoy the gift, I rather fancy you in the fine clothing. Do think of me as you dress, only next time I hope you do it in reverse. I'll be waiting for you.
Ever yours,
Everett

My heart speeds up rapidly, a warm blush flooding my cheeks. I bite my lip anxiously as I reread his note. Scoundrel. Thank God no one read it, hopefully. I was certainly pleased by his note, though part of me wishes he had given it to me himself.
"Go on, who's it from? I bet it's a ravishing young man. Oh, just think of the possibilities!" Larissa exclaims oddly. A small smile dances on my lips.

"Actually, it is from a ravishing young man. Excuse me, ravishing young prince." My voice comes in almost a whisper. Why me? Surely he has someone better to spend his time with.

"What?! Arabelle Jean Bethel you better explain yourself now or I assure you, you will have wrinkled clothing for the rest of your life." She attempts to sound stern with me, but really I end up laughing at her. I tell her everything, including my fathers death. Though I'm not entirely sure whether or not that was a good idea, I tell her all the same. I glance at the box, anticipation eating away at me. I untie the beautiful blue ribbon tied in a wonderfully done bow. Lifting the box lid, I'm amazed. Inside the box is the most beautiful piece of clothing I've ever seen. The top of the gown is a gorgeous lacy white, a strapless sweet heart neckline that flows wonderfully into a deep red. I pull the gown from the box and turn towards Larissa.

"Its… beautiful." I whisper. A small smile plants itself on my lips.

"Let's get you dressed!" She claps excitedly. Since I'm already wearing a corset all we had to do was slip on the gown. The soft lace felt amazing against my slightly sunkissed skin. Almost as if silk was lying against my skin. The gown fell gracefully to the floor, sweeping the floor with a delightful red. The gown fit tightly until it hit my hips, then flowed out. In this precise moment, I felt more worth than I had in my whole life.
Larissa went on to curl my hair loosely, making my brown hair fall delicately down my back in an almost mouthwatering waterfall. She then lightly did my makeup, and at last, I was ready for what might possibly be the best night of my life.

"Thank you, Larissa." I said as I hugged her tightly.

"Oh your welcome, dear. Now, off you go. A lady is never late to a party." She smiles softly. I nod my head and scurry out the door.

~•~•

As promised, Peter was waiting patiently at the bottom of the grand staircase. Dear Lord help me. He is wearing a dashing black suit, all black. His hair still messy but in a classy manner. He is most definitely the handsomest man I've ever seen. It is positively breathtaking. My eyes meet his and I nearly lose all my senses.