Elizabeta and Roderich were inseparable. When Roderich was amusing himself with the tunes of his piano, Eliza would be making herself comfortable on the couch nearby, reclining in the sofa while enjoying each note he struck. If Elizabeta was tending to the garden, it would be a safe assumption that Roderich was sitting on the bench to her left, admiring her handiwork. Some found it shocking how close the two rivals had become, while others were not stirred in the slightest by their new passion for each other. Although even those who had faith in their romance came to admit they expected it to take more than a year for the two to warm up to each other.
Tonight the two would show off their now happy and intimate relationship to the rest of the world. The largest ball in Austria would be held in Vienna and they were the highlights of the dance. They had no intention of disappointing the anticipating press, waiting to get the newest scoop on their marriage. In fact, due to the ball, this was one of the few times Eliza and Roderich were not side by side, for they were far too busy preparing themselves for tonight.
Roderich had slipped into his dark tuxedo, a grey necktie tucked beneath his vest with gold buttons lining from his hips and up to his collar. His hair was no longer wild, but tucked back, much resembling the style of his close cousin, Ludwig. He was never one for dancing, but for his wife, he would do anything. He was well aware how eager she was about the ball and he refused to let this night be anything less than excellence for her.
Eliza scowled at the mirror, unimpressed with her reflection. She was wearing a long, elegant red gown that layered in the back and fell flat in the front. Despite her maid's insisting that she looked stunning, she couldn't help but feel doubt. Her hair hung loose, draping over her shoulders and a touch of mascara was added to her eyelashes. She somehow felt as if she may trip over the dress as it gave her hardly any leg space. She preferred pants, but she understood a dress was practically a necessity for a lady of her standing to wear.
The clock struck six as the two hurried into their carriage. The ball would begin in less than an hour and the fear of running late struck Roderich hard. He was notorious for being unnecessarily punctual. If he was even five minutes late, he refused to show his face out of shame. However, that would not be the case, the ball took place only a few miles from their house and both were much relieved to find that the carriage had pulled in exactly on time. No need for embarrassment here.
Roderich stepped out first, and then rushed to the other side to assist Elizabeta, their arms locking with each other's as they strolled into the grand manor. Crystal chandeliers dangled from the ceiling, the light reflecting off of their transparent surface, causing the illusion that they held flames inside. Without a doubt, the two of them were by far the best dressed out of everyone there. Swarms of dancers and couples parted to allow the two of them to step through. Elizabeta felt a small smile settling her lips as Roderich took her left hand cautiously.
"My lady, may I have this dance?" he asked with a gentle bow.
"But of course, how could I possible refuse." She responded, resting her other hand on his shoulder.
The other guests filed a circle around them, as they danced through the song. Twirling and sashaying across the dance floor without a care in the world. The rest of the world melted away beneath them, all that mattered was that they had each other and they never would feel tired. Slowly the song faded away as they came to a halt, Elizabeta dipping in Roderich's arms, her face red from the rush of dancing.
The rest of the night was filled with interviews, alcohol and just a tad more dancing. However, the familiar bells soon chimed midnight and the crowd began to dwindle as they made their way back to their abodes. And, eventually, Roderich found himself back in the carriage with Eliza's head leaning on his shoulder, barely conscious. He couldn't help but smile, knowing that she had enjoyed herself. That was all that truly mattered to him.