The night of the grand ball had finally arrived, and the Pattons were ready to make their entrance. Olivia, accompanied by her mother, Mrs. Patton, descended the staircase, turning heads with their elegance and poise. Olivia's gown shimmered in the light, her hair styled perfectly, and her smile radiant.
As they entered the grand hall, they were greeted by the host, Lord Harrington, who formally introduced them to some lords, Lady Lydia Nagar from House Elderpharny, she was announced and she fashioned in shock but later settled it was her sister in-law, agape in Lady Nagar's eyes sparkled with interest as she greeted Mrs. Patton and Olivia. Mrs Patton well looked on in disgust, most disgusted by taking on her name. She must have known she'd be here.
It's a pleasure to meet you, Lady Patton, Lady Nagar said, her voice warmed in sarcasm.
And your daughter, Olivia, is a vision of loveliness, more radiant than you once was or has hardship taken toil on your youth.. "Mrs Patton"
Olivia curtsied, her smile never wavering. Thank you, Lady Nagar. It's an honor to meet you, must ask what relationship you have with my mother formerly to speak so informally. Olivia ever so polite held aggrieved to how her mother was spoken to.
Lady Patton who fell solemn could only look on in pride for her daughter's defence.
After Lady Nagar left Olivia spoke to her mother silently.
Do not think I didn't notice the Harry since we came to the capital, you have allot of spilling to do mother, something you didn't tell us about your childhood, only takes of your love for father.
Drae, however, had other plans. After several formalities, she excused herself, feeling like a sore thumb among the nobility. She didn't know how to navigate the complex web of etiquette and protocol, and she felt overwhelmed.
As she slipped away from the ball, Drae spotted a figure across the room. She believed it was the cat-eyed knight something she had decided to point him out as when she had met him earlier, but he was wearing a mask, and his silver hair was tied back in a stylish straight length.
She thought their eyes met several times, but she shrugged it off as nonsense, given the distance between them.
The grand hall was packed, with nobles and lords seated on different paths, as if showing a power dynamic chain an invisible hierarchy.
The princess arrived two hours later, accompanied by her mother and other ladies, but the king and princes were nowhere to be seen.
Meanwhile, Olivia was in her element, charming several lords with her wit and beauty. Matt was enjoying himself, exploring the hall and talking to the castle's staff. Mr. Patton was engaged in conversation with some business associates, but he kept a watchful eye on his family.
As the night wore on, Olivia's popularity grew. She was approached by several suitors, and she handled herself with poise and confidence. Mrs. Patton beamed with pride, knowing that her daughter was making a good impression.
Drae, on the other hand, felt out of place. She didn't know how to dance, and she didn't know anyone. She wandered around the hall, trying to find something to do.
But as she turned a corner, she saw him again - the cat-eyed knight. This time, he was standing closer, and she could see the glint in his eye. She felt a shiver run down her spine as he caught her gaze.
For a moment, they just stared at each other, the music and laughter fading into the background. Drae felt like she was melting into his gaze, her heart pounding in her chest.
Then, suddenly, he nodded, and turned away, disappearing into the crowd. Drae was left standing there, feeling like she had been punched in the gut.
As she made her way back to the ball, Olivia caught her eye.
Drae, where have you been?" Olivia asked, her voice concerned.
You look like you've seen a ghost.
Drae shook her head, trying to compose herself.
Did you go climbing some pillars, why are curly ends protruding from your bun. Olivia stretched her hands arranging Drae's hair back in other.
I just needed some fresh air, she said, forcing a smile.
But Olivia wasn't fooled. She knew that something was bothering her sister, and she was determined to find out what it was.
Ok then, don't go finding Lord's troubles or climbing their backs and Drae you look gorgeous, your beautiful big brown eyes are wonderous, your dress compliments your shade, you're very beautiful, I must admit I am jealous Olivia said in a jest.
Drae almost fell for it but looking at the glint in her sister's eyes she rolled her eyes, Olivia had some many personalities but jealousy for a fair lady was out of it.
But I didn't lie D when I said you are gorgeous .
Thanksss.. and soon another noble took Olivia in conversation.
As the night wore on, Olivia continued to shine, charming the nobility with her wit and beauty. Mrs. Patton watched with pride, knowing that her daughter was making a good impression.
And Drae? She was lost in her own world, her mind consumed by the cat eyed man. She didn't know what to make of him, or why she felt so drawn to him, a weird encounter.
But one thing was certain she would not cook herself in this hall no matter what it took she must leave .
But the night is full of the unknown.