Colorless: Julia Maplewood

Chapter III

And so as promised, the Stonefield Ball was set. Two days prior it was announced that the Clarkes were to arrive that night rather than the day before, as previously planned. The absence of Mr. Clarke became mostly noticed during my daily walk. Without my walking companion, I found it difficult to find pleasure in the activity.

He was waiting for his siblings' arrival near the port. His sister and brother were beyond difficult to remove from my head. My mind often drifted in thoughts of wonder leaving me in utter distress. Their opinion on my character as well as my appearance matter deeply. As for the reason for this belief, I dare say I was in the dark; for I knew not as to why it might come to such importance. The opinion of strangers shan't be one's main worries; if that were the case, our times would be of no good use.

As much as I attempted to vanish the unpleasant concerns, they inevitably returned to anguish me. I was not one to panic over a ball. On the contrary, it was often received as an exciting opportunity to acquaintance oneself with others. 'Put this to rest, you irrational child!' Thought I.

The night arrived. Carriages came in thousands! Or so I believed. None of which were ridden by the expected. I looked upon the tall mirror. My finest gown on, white and long with a pink lace sash. My hair was well placed with two curls that fell into my temples. I anticipated the greatest of all nights. It had been a year since our previous ball, and it was far from memorable. This had no negative opinion on myself, however, to my mother it was madness. She could not handle her nerves knowing the Lordcraft had surpassed her own ball.

"Mrs. Lordcraft could never hold a ball as grand as mine. And it is mine, for I was the one with the idea. What an expensive one, I dare say. Would you not agree dear? No one shall ever speak of the horrendous disaster we dealt with last year." My mother declared.

"Why of course my love, for you are the best hostess this town has ever known!" She was unaware of my father's sarcastic comments. She took compliments no matter the manner in which they were sent.

I sat not far from the window that gave the best view to the carriages that arrived. An hour passed and the people began to question whether the Clarkes were to arrive. "Oh, fear not my lovely guest. They shan't be long. Do note how far the ride must be, and how much time it must take to prepare." My mother said in fear of her precious guest leaving.

Her prayers were not ignored, for the Clarkes siblings arrived. There was Jamie Clarke, the eldest of them. He shared his brothers eyes and face structure, but was far less handsome. He once had a pleasant face, in his younger years. He looked sickly. His eyes were tired and unpleasant compared to his siblings'. His posture was poor from exhaustion. However, his character was charming and instantly agreeable.

Short and quite young, not more than seventeen, was Adeline. The child had a simple face, no appealing features were found on her. As for her hair, it was quite thin and plain. Her eyes were large too, though hers were darker. She wore a lovely gown of exquisite fabric. The dress was white with lilac flowers decorating the bosom. A dress that no face made justice to.

The dance began with lively music and enthusiastic couples of all ages. The youngest moved with ease, and the eldest with experience. Those outside, maintained their sight fixated on the new arrivals. "Rain!" Father called me from behind. "Sir?"

"We must greet them at once. Behave with grace and for your mother's sanity, keep your brother from saying a word." I quietly laughed at his remark.

"Mr. Sinclair." Mr. Clarke could hardly hold his smile. "We are beyond grateful for this enormous and I dare say lively ball. We could not thank you enough."

"It is not mine, but my wife's idea. She clearly knows how to welcome her guests. The happiness of others brings great pleasure to her. I presume these are your siblings."