The evening was starting to cool. Mixed with the heat of all the dancing bodies and the flames from the lights, it was starting to create an uncomfortable atmosphere.
After a couple of dances with Dimitri, and then Andre, I stepped away from the floor and wandered along the garden. It wasn't common for a woman to walk alone in the evening, but I needed a break from the noise and bluster. As much as any girl loved the party, I needed a bit of quiet too.
I let my hand trail over the fern hedge as I walked, the feeling of my lace gloves scratching against my palms. As I walked I could smell the garden, mostly the smell of hyacinth and roses. Lady Badica was known for her spectacular garden, and she never disappointed.
But that wasn't the only sensation I could think about. I kept thinking about the sensation I felt when my hand was in Dimitri's. It seemed silly to linger on the thought, but I couldn't help but feel a tingle in my hands when we touched. It was almost like the feeling of touching something metal after shuffling your feet, a slight zap. But this didn't hurt, it just lingered in my skin.
It didn't just linger in my skin. It crept through my body, my veins. It made me feel warm in a sense. I smiled to myself as I thought about it, and another thought crossed my mind before I scolded myself. It wasn't an appropriate thought and was unbecoming, but it flitted its way through my mind like a shot of lightning.
I jolted out of my thoughts where there was a brushing of leaves behind me. I had wandered further into the garden than I had anticipated. I stopped and turned, finding I was no longer alone. Instead, I was in the company of the last person I wanted to be. I tensed up for a moment before turning again and started heading through the garden, quickening my pace to get back to the party.
"Where are you running off to, little mouse?" he called out as he followed. I didn't think of how silly my actions could have been but being found out alone with him was the last thing I could want. It would not only ruin my reputation but could look badly on Lissa's. Not to mention, if Jesse Zeklos decided to say that something happened, it would be his word against mine.
And nobody would believe mine.
Just like nobody believed Natalie Dashkov when she said that Ralf Sarcozy made unwanted advances on her. Now she's been saddled with him and his three children, miserable as ever.
"If we are to play a game little mouse, the chase is my best game."
I took a deep breath and darted out to the left after stepping around a high hedge, hoping to throw him off my trail, only to run into a solid form. I made a noise that resembled a squeak and a shriek when hands stabled me. I looked up and let out a sigh of relief to find a familiar face.
"Rose, are you alright?" Lady Belikova asked looking from me to her son. I looked at her and took a shaky breath before looking up at Dimitri.
"Rose?"
"Little mouse!"
I flinched and risked a glance at Lady Belikova. "I went for a walk and wander a little too far," I said quietly. Dimitri nodded and let go of my shoulder before stepping around me, gently pushing me towards his mother.
Jesse rounded the corner with a cocky grin on his face before he realized that we were no longer alone. Lady Belikova's hand rested on my forearm, and she pulled me closer, wrapping an arm around my shoulder. I moved towards her willingly. Maybe these two would be able to turn this situation.
"Your Grace, I see you found my Rose," Jesse said.
"I don't believe I found anything of yours, Jesse," Dimitri bit out. "Instead, I find my friend. What were you doing following her?"
"Can't take a stroll in the garden?"
"Not when you're taunting a young lady," Dimitri said, stepping towards him. I had to appreciate just how tall Dimitri was. I had to look up at him when I spoke to him, but seeing him stare Jesse down, all I could think of was how small Jesse looked.
"I wasn't taunting, we were just having fun," Jesse said but the way he said it, he made it sound like something untoward had happened. Lady Belikova scoffed and stroked my head softly.
"I highly doubt that Mr. Zeklos."
Jesse smirked again and opened his mouth, but Dimitri spoke over him. "I don't care for what you have to say next, but I'd save it. Many people know the reputation you carry, and I know Lady Mazur enough to know that she wouldn't entertain the idea of you, or risk her virtue by coming out here alone with you. You followed her, and you best be sure to never speak of this incident again."
"Do you really think that you can tell me what to do?" Jesse scoffed, but it was short-lived when Dimitri's fist shot out and hit him directly in the mouth. Both Lady Belikova and I gasped, me stepping forwards only for her to tighten her grip on my arm.
Jesse staggered back and tried to hit Dimitri, but Dimitri hit him in the stomach hard enough to make Jesse sink to his knees.
"I can, and I will. Don't make me have tot speak to your father about the inappropriate behaviour you've displayed. You are one word from being disowned, you and I both know that."
Jesse grunted on his knees before Dimitri lifted him by his collar. "And I know that if you ever made such accusations, your brother would be more than happy to take care of you. And I'd gladly help," Dimitri hissed, "Have I made myself clear?"
Jesse grunted again and nodded stiffly. Dimitri huffed and let go of him. Jesse staggered to his feet and fixed his shirt before brushing past us and back towards the party. I let out a breath and looked at Dimitri, my brows furrowing in concern.
"Dimitri?" I whispered, taking the chance while being in the company of his mother. Dimitri turned and lifted his eyes to mine and I frowned. I had seen the soft, kind eyes before, but these were hard and stony.
"Did he touch you?"
I shook my head. "No. He never got close enough. I realized he was following me and ran," I said quietly, stepping away from Lady Belikova. I stepped closer, leaving space between us, but close enough that we could speak quietly.
"You never should have been out here alone," he snapped, making me take a step back. I looked down at my feet. I knew that I shouldn't have been alone, but I didn't mean to go that far off. Feeling a little chastised, I twisted my fingers together and chewed on my lip. I spared a glance back up at him and e sighed, his shoulders sagging and his expression softening. I took a deep breath and closed his eyes before opening them again.
"Let's get back to the party before you're missed," Dimitri said quietly, taking my elbow gently and steering me towards his mother. I looked at Lady Belikova with furrowed brows, but she gave me a calmed look.
I kept my gaze down as we walked, not uttering a word the whole way. I could practically feel Dimitri's tension rolling off of him and I could only imagine what his mother would think. Once we made it back to the main party, Lissa and Andre spotted us. Lissa skipped towards me and linked arms with me the moment Dimitri let go of mine.
"Have you enjoyed your evening, Lady Belikova?" Lissa asked, a sweet smile on her face.
Lady Belikova smiled. "It's been an eventful night. Have you?"
Lissa nodded with a smile and bowed her head at Dimitri and his mother. I did the same but didn't meet his eyes afterwards.
"Enjoy the rest of your evening," Lady Belikova said to the two of us. I nodded my head again, sparing a glance at her. Her eyes met mine and they were soft and warm, a stark comparison to what I had seen in Dimitri's.
"I hope to see you soon, Rose," she said kindly. I gave her a tight smile.
"You as well," I said quietly. Lady Belikova gave the two of us a kind smile and started walking towards Lady Badica, leaving Dimitri in her wake. I kept my eyes adverted and waited for him to say something, but he didn't. Just bid us good evening after a moment.
Once he started to wake away I let out a breath I was holding. I looked up at Lissa and forced a smile, but laughed at the goofy look on her face.
"What is it?" I asked.
She glanced over her shoulder to see how close Andre was before whispering in my ear. "I met someone."
"You've met many," I joked but she rolled her eyes.
"No, I mean, I met someone. Someone that I had a real connection with," Lissa whispered with excitement.
"Who?" I asked. Lissa smiled coyly and looked off to the side.
"His name is Christian. Christian Ozera," she said with a sigh. My eyes followed her gaze and found Lord Ozera across the way, lingering off to the side of the dance.
Of course, Lissa chooses him.
"Liss, you've heard about his family, right?"
Lissa stopped in her tracks and pinned me with her gaze. "He isn't his parents, Rose."
I pressed my lips into a tight line and nodded, letting it go. I wasn't her biggest issue; Andre was going to be her biggest issue.
I picked at my breakfast with a sigh. I had hoped I would have heard from Dimitri, but that seemed to be wishful thinking. From what I had learned, nobody had spoken about what happened in the garden to Andre, and for that I was grateful. I could only imagine the fit he would throw over that.
But it also meant that I was keeping something from him.
"You've been gloomy," Lissa stated, "I thought you'd be in better spirits."
"Why do you say that?" I asked, not indicating what statement I was referring to. Lissa plucked the last piece of fruit off my plate and popped it into her mouth.
"Andre said that we could go out to the park. I thought it'd be nice, it's not too hot today."
I shrugged my shoulders slightly. I wasn't in the mood to promenade in the park, but couldn't exactly tell her the reason why. Lissa eventually pulled me from my chair and pushed me up the stairs, telling me that I only had thirty minutes and I had to make haste.
I rolled my eyes at her every time she told me to 'make haste'.
I wasn't choosy about what I wore, instead just putting on the first dress my hands fell on. It wasn't what I usually wore, a bit more pastel and feminine than usual, but I couldn't care at the moment. I dressed in the powder blue dress and left the majority of my hair down, pinning the front of it back to make it acceptable for public attire.
Lissa was thrilled with my choice of clothing, commenting on how nice the colour was but I didn't pay much mind. I wanted to go, walk around, and come back and hide away in the drawing-room with my paints.
As we walked through town with Andre I slipped into the apothecary. The dried thorne apple was pricier than I anticipated, but I clutched it tightly as I walked back to Lissa and Andre. Lissa looked at me with curiosity but I shook my head and pressed the pouch into Pipa's hands.
"Please make sure this gets to the Ashford residence," I whispered, giving her a small smile. Pipa nodded and tucked it into her pocket. I watched her walk in the direction of the Ashford residence feeling a little better. The air was heavier today and I knew that Milly would need it more than usual.
I knew that Mason wouldn't be thrilled that I bought it, but his mother would be gracious enough to accept it. Lissa raised her brows at me as I slipped my arm through hers.
"What was that?" Lissa asked.
"Nothing," I said with a smile. Lissa didn't need to know of my charity. Lissa didn't look convinced but left it alone, turning the topic to another event being hosted later this week. To be fair, I was weary about going to another event so soon.
I didn't want to run into Jesse again, but at the same time, I didn't want Lissa and Andre asking questions about why I wasn't going to the events. I didn't want to give Jesse the satisfaction of knowing that he got under my skin.
As we walked by the pond I spotted a familiar figure. I grimaced on the inside when I noticed Lissa was pulling me in their direction. Lady Belikova sat with another lady under the shade of a tree, chatting happily. Lissa had stopped to make pleasantries and I smiled at the ladies politely. Lady Belikova stood and approached me.
"Good morning, Rose."
I bowed my head politely and gave her a friendly smile. "Lady Belikova."
"You don't mind if I walk with Rose, do you?"
"Not at all," Lissa said kindly, letting go of my arm and stepping back so that she could walk with Andre. I kept pace with Lady Belikova but waited for her to start the conversation.
"It is a beautiful day, don't you agree?"
I nodded. "It's lovely."
Lady Belikova made a noise in the back of her throat. "I wish to apologize on behalf of my son."
I turned to her and shook my head. It wasn't necessary. "You don't need to do that. There's nothing to apologize for."
"But there is," she stated firmly, "He shouldn't have snapped at you. You didn't do anything wrong, other than walk too far from the party. You didn't invite Mr. Zeklos into the garden, and it was clear when we found you that you had no intentions of entertaining his company. As I said, an apology is in order."
"Lady Belikova,"
"Olena. Please."
"Olena," I said, "You have no reason to apologize to me. You haven't wronged me."
"But my son has, which is surprising, considering how highly he has spoken of you."
I swallowed and felt a smile cross my lips before forcing it down again. "He's spoken of me?"
Lady Belikova chuckled and patted my hand. "At first, I thought it was just high regard for a friend's sister, but after meeting you I understand it. You are very beautiful."
I could feel the tops of my cheeks flush, and I gave her a small smile. "Thank you," I replied, "That is very kind of you."
"I only speak the truth."
I laughed to myself and looked up again. There was a kind air around Lady Belikova. She gave off a feeling of softness and serenity, making it easier for her to talk to her. I could see Dimitri in her as I looked at her. Her eyes and cheekbones were the same, and the way one side of her mouth quirked up fast than the other was something I noticed in Dimitri.
We came around the bend and I heard Lady Belikova hum.
"Rose? How well acquainted are you to Lord Castile?"
"Eddison Castile?"
"Yes."
"We've known each other since we were children," I said, "Why do you ask?"
"I think my youngest is taken with him," she said with a smile. "What is your opinion of him?"
I followed her gaze and found that Eddie was standing not far off, speaking to a young brunette. She had a charming smile on her face, and I could tell that he was smitten.
"He's a good man. Good values, kind heart. You couldn't go wrong with him. He'd make anyone a lucky bride," I said kindly, "He is one of my closest friends."
Lady Belikova smiled and patted my hand. "Maybe you should pass some of that knowledge onto my son. He seems to be quite hesitant about letting Viktoria join society. I've already allowed it, but he is dragging his making it known he isn't happy about it."
"How old is Viktoria?"
"Sixteen. She was adamant that she wanted to have her debut in society this year. I think the passing of their father has influenced it."
I pursed my lips with a sigh. "I assume he passed recently?"
"Yes. He passed in the spring."
"I'm sorry," I sympathized but she shook her head.
"It's nothing to be concerned over," she said thoughtfully, "I've come to terms with it."
It wasn't common to hear someone speak so breezily about the passing of their spouse. Lissa's parents were in love with each other, and I know that my parents loved each other. It was the kind of love that they grew to love each other, but genuine, true love.
But I thought back to how Dimitri was quick to change the subject when his father had been brought up at parties. Maybe something was happening behind closed doors?
We were approaching Eddie and I noticed another figure standing just off behind them. Dimitri was chaperoning Viktoria and I faltered, letting Lady Belikova's arm slip from mine. She turned and raised a brow at me, and a smile came to her lips.
"Aren't you coming?"
I glanced at Dimitri again and cleared my throat. "I don't want to intrude on your Saturday."
Lady Belikova laughed. "Nonsense. Come."
I stepped forward and walked with her, chewing on the inside of my mouth as we approached. Almost as if he could sense me, his gaze moved from his sister to me and I was disappointed with myself at the flutter in my chest.
Lady Belikova patted my hand and brought attention to us, greeting Viktoria and Eddie. I smiled at Eddie and Viktoria before letting my eyes move to Dimitri again.
"Your Grace," I said kindly, remembering my place. Dimitri's eyes met mine and he tipped his head in response.
"Viktoria, this is Lady Rose Mazur. Lady Mazur, this is my youngest sister, Viktoria."
I bowed my head in greet and gave her a friendly smile. Viktoria greeted me as well, a large smile rising to her lips.
"It's lovely to meet you. I've heard great things about you."
"Oh?" I asked, glancing at Lady Belikova.
"Yes. I'm acquainted with Lord Castile," Viktoria said, a blush creeping to her cheeks. I nodded in understanding, Lissa joining in.
"Lord Castile has been a friend of Rose's since we were children. I think he will be competing in the next race, isn't he?"
I nodded. "Yes. Next week he'll be racing. Will you be attending?"
Viktoria's gaze turned on her brother, a hopeful look on her face.
"Will you be attending?" Dimitri asked me, eyes meeting mine. I suppressed a shiver that crawled up my spine, getting lost for a moment in his gaze. I blinked to pull myself back to reality, wondering what my fascination was with him.
"Wouldn't miss it," I breathed.
"Then I don't see why you can't attend," Dimitri said to Viktoria, making her smile so strong that her eyes crinkled. There was a childness to Viktoria, but a part of me envied it. I had to grow up quickly after Aslan passed, and I didn't get to enjoy my years as a young miss. Now I was on the cusp of being a lady.
Lissa jumped into conversing with Viktoria, asking her how she was enjoying the summer so far. I idly listened to the conversation when Andre tapped my shoulder. I blinked and looked at him, but he gestured his head in front of me.
"May I speak with you?" Dimitri asked. I looked at Andre before nodding, stepping off to the side so we could speak privately. I already knew what this was going to be about. We were only a few steps away, well within sight of our companions before I turned and faced him, clasping my hands loosely in front of me.
"How are you?"
My head canted the slightest bit before I spoke. "I'm well. And you?"
Dimitri eyed me carefully. "I've been better. I'd like to speak about what happened at Lady Badica's ball."
I rolled my shoulders back and gave him a tight-lipped smile. "I'd rather not. I got a dressing down; I don't need nor want another."
"I want to apologize," Dimitri said quickly, "I shouldn't have snapped at you."
"No. You shouldn't have," I stated plainly, "Why did you?"
Dimitri sighed and ran his hand through the hair that hung loosely around his face. I hadn't noticed how long it was the first few times I'd met him, but now, it brushed his jaw. It suited him and for a split moment, I wondered what it would feel like before pushing the thought away.
"The situation struck a nerve," he said and I felt my brows knit together.
"That isn't much of an explanation."
Dimitri nodded and rubbed the back of his neck. He seemed to struggle to find the right words.
"I know. But please understand, I wasn't angry or frustrated with you. More at the situation I found you in. I know what kind of person Jesse is, and I'd hate for him to tarnish your image. I know that if the roles were reserved, Aslan would have done that same for any of my sisters."
He was right. Aslan would have done the same that Dimitri did that night, maybe even more. Aslan liked to box of all things. My mother hated it and my father thought it was funny just how much she hated it. Aslan once brought me to the center where he would practice. He wrapped my hands carefully with thick clothe and taught me how to make a fist.
I wanted to attend one of the matches, but he was hesitant about bringing me, stating our mother would string him up by his toes.
"He would," I said quietly.
"I'm sorry for the way I acted, it was unbecoming."
"Your forgiven," I said softly, giving him a small smile. The smile he gave me made my breath catch in my chest.
That should have been the biggest sign of what was in store for me.
Hey all! I hope you're liking the story so far! I love the responses I've been getting, and I love the feedback/corrections/help you've given me! I really appreciate the help as this is kind of new for me (well, the time period at least) :)
I do have a small favour to ask of you all. My friend and my community have all been faced with sadness. One of the kindest classmates I had in high school went missing in February, and his body was found over the weekend.
If you could send out a thought or a prayer for my classmate, Brayden, it would be much appreciated.
