Chap 3! Awesome responce so far, enjoy the Ball part 1 ;)

Rose

I was holding the cup of tea between my hands as Tasha was lighting flicking a brush across my eyelids. She was very specific and a perfectionist when if came to make up and hair and I knew I could always trust her.

Tonight was the annual military ball my father held to celebrate our success, alliance and also to honour the men who have long fought together. It usually it was war heroes at the age of city plus. Don't get me wrong I found it fascinating hearing their stories but you can only hear so many stories before it all blends together.

Lately a lot of the alliance my father had were alway invited and as their sons and top men grew older they were invited as well. It made things more interesting I have to admit, but sometimes all they have is muscle and not enough brain to carry conversation. You can only talk about their muscles for so long…

"Are you excited about tonight?" Tasha asked waking my up from my thoughts.

I smiled, "Yes it's always interesting to see new faces, I'm still a bit put off knowing Mr Romanian guy will be there" I scrunched my nose thinking of him.

During the last Winter ball he was breathing down my neck all evening. He was too handsy on the dance floor and I could tell Oscar had guards set to him so he wouldn't bother me too much. I didn't help.

"What do you think, I didn't want to put too much liner on your lid because that might be too over powering against the red lip?"

I studied my reflection. Tasha had drawn a thin line on my top lid to enhance my eyes and a layer of mascara on my lashes. I was a girl for simple make up but tonight I have left it all in Tasha's hands since I didn't have a clue on what the dress would be like.

A slightly darker shade of red were painted onto my lips and made them look full and flirty. I grinned meeting her gaze, "You're a genius, do you know that?"

She grinned proudly, "Oh no need to flattering. I was thinking a very simple up do, with a big bun at the back and some volume with your hair. I chose these big drop diamond earrings that use to be your mothers" she smiled pointing towards the set of earring lying on the side of my dresser. They had a smaller diamond sitting on the lobe and a heavy tall drop hanging almost an inch down. I smiled sadly. I missed my mother.

She passed away when I was six years old from Cancer. She was a fighter and always put on a brave face. She always knew how to dress to impress during events like this. My father always said I was the spitting image of her but my hair like in the Mazur family. Long thick and dark.

Blinking twice I left the thoughts of my mother and sipped on my tea, "The earrings will be perfect" I smiled sadly.

I put them in as Tasha was working on my hair. A knock came on the door and we both looked up, I tightened my robe around me as Tasha went to open the door.

She smiled as Oscar walked in holding a box in his hands. He smiled warmly, "Stunning as always"

I smiled towards him gazing towards the box and raised my brows, "And what secret might you carry?"

He put the box down in front of me, "No beating around the bush with you is there?" He chuckled, "Your father heard Natasha was using the diamond drop earrings that use to be your mother signature earrings" he slowly opened the box, "So he wanted to make sure you had a matching Tiara to match" he winked at me grinning proudly as I gasped as I saw the tiara sitting in the box.

I instantly remembered her wearing it on several occasions. It was dressed in diamonds, in the centre a big circle interlocking with smaller diamond clad circles edging smaller as they came closer to the edges. It was a sparkling masterpiece and I had long dreamt about wearing it one day. I usually chose smaller pieces to wear for events as this but this was definitely a statement piece.

The grin on my face was ridiculous and I could see Tasha smile in the mirror as she already knew about this. I lifted it up ready to put it on but Tasha stopped me, "I'm not done yet" she chuckled, "The excitement will have to wait and you need to put on the dress first so it won't ruin your hair"

Oscar snickered as I rolled my eyes since Tasha was such a kill joy. She laughed, "Don't be a baby"

Oscar departed as Tasha continued with my hair. Later she laced up my corset, I always dreaded this part.

"God Tasha, are you trying to kill me?"

I knew she was rolling her eyes at my moaning and she continued to tug, "You've done this for years and yet you still whine like it's the first time"

I smiled and groaned as she tugged again. I knew she was done but it was a hell of a process to go through to fit into a dress.

"Right" Tasha said excited, "Now for the dress. I picked it up yesterday and I can't wait to see it on you, I just know it will be amazing!"

I chuckled seeing her excitement. She wouldn't hold the dress up to me but seeing the dark blue colour I was definitely intrigued. It was very rich in colour but still had a matt look to it, not shiny as my dresses usually were.

I stepped into the dress and she started to help me putting it on. The skirt was full and the fabric was falling beautifully around my ankles. Putting my arms through the short sleeves I realised as Tasha walked around me it was very deep in the neckline both at the front and back.

I know my father prefers me in a more modest necklines to keep eyes away. He would definitely have something to say about this!

I felt a small sipper go up and Tasha walked around me studying her creation. She smiled has she straighten the skirt out. "You can look now" she smiled as turned me towards the mirrors.

My lips parted as a small gasp filled my lugns. The sleeves were short and delicate as they cover my shoulders. The v neckline was daring yet elegant as it showed of the top of my cleavage. The bodice was fitted along my bust and waist before it flowed out into loads of garment resting around my feet. A thin piece of sparkly fabric accentuated my waist. Turning around and peeking over my shoulder I could see it was low cut in the back as well in a v right at the curve of my back.

"What is the verdict?"

I chuckled turning around again having another look, "I absolutely love it!"

"I knew you would" She replied confidently

"My father will have a heart attack though" I said shooting her an amused look. She smiled innocently and walked over towards the dressing table. She picked up the tiara.

"And the cherry on top" she smiled as she slowly placed the tiara on my head. Seeing the full image. The make up, red lip, earrings, tiara and finishing off with the dress I knew Tasha was a master mind in the making.

I turned towards her and gave her a hug, "Thank you"

I could hear the grin in her voice, "Your are like my own personal dress up doll" she laughed pulling back to see my face, "And you always look stunning"

I smiled back, "I knew you only wanted this job to play dress up"

"Why else would I even apply?" we laughed at her reply as a knock came to the door.

Eddie peaked his head in, "They're ready for you, your father wants you to greet guests as they arrive into the ball room" he said as he stepped in and his eye grew wide mouthing wow, "Aren't you a sight for sore eyes"

I grinned, "We're friends, you're not suppose to flirt with me"

He laughed out right, "Oh believe me honey, this isn't me flirting. You do look gorgeous Rose"

I smiled "Thank you, it is all Tasha's creation"

Tasha bowed as we both clapped our hands and laughed. Eddie gave me his arm as he nodded towards the door, "C'mon, let's go before you're late. I'm sure you can't wait to see your papas face in that dress"

I chuckled, "You don't think he will have a heart attack do you?"

"He just might"

I laughed, "Let's hope not"

Ibrahim

Everything was moving smoothly. All the guests were arriving in the hall and Oscar just told me excitement was in the air. This was one of my favourite events of the year. It was to celebrate and to honour our fellow countrymen and alliances surviving through what ever the world through at us. I also saw it as a great opportunity for Rosemarie to meet some new people. Well men to be frank.

I know it's been a hard year, she was so excited about this to start off but then it all just started going down hill. I think her caring about looks had gone out the window, which made me pleased because a relationship shouldn't be built on looks. But looks is the first to attract the eye.

Man after man I asked to come for a visit stormed out or was dismissed. I was hoping tonight with a room full of proper men at least one should do, shouldn't they?

"You're thinking about Rose arran'r you?"

I turned quickly seeing Oscar with his arms crossed and a relaxed smile on his face. I tried to hold back a smile, he knew he was right.

"I will keep an eye on her tonight" He smiled. He was a true friend, I also knew Rose wouldn't mind. She really loved Oscar like an uncle which he might as well be.

"I know she will do well tonight, she always does. I'm just worried about he suitors"

"She can hold her own" Oscar winked, "Although" he looked over my shoulder, "I would be worried tonight"

"Why?" I asked feeling a frown paint my face. I turned around I was gobsmacked. She was an absolute spitting image of her mother in her early days. The dress, tiara and the way she carried herself was almost like a punch in the stomach.

"See what I mean?" Oscar snickered to me.

I then noticed the deep neckline and I could feel my fists clenched. "Oh I will be worried" I said giving Oscar a side glance and I could hear him holding back laughter. Rose was grinning as she walked closer and Oscar stepped forward grabbing her hand spinning her around. I noticed the open back and I rolled my eyes.

"Are you out to give me heart attack or what are you up to?" I asked narrowing my eyes at my daughter.

She laughed, "Isn't that what I'm suppose to do?" She met Oscars gaze and they shared a laugh. "So I take it you don't like it?" she asked eyeing me with a relaxed smile on her face.

I sighed, "You know you look beautiful, you always do. The Tiara and the earrings is just the cherry on top. It's the amount of cleavage I'm worried about…"

"And the amount of testosterone here tonight" Oscar smoothly added.

I could see Rose was holding back laughter, "I do owe my look to Tasha but I do feel like mama" she smiled sadly.

My heart broke a little and I took her both hands in mine, "You carry the exact same presence she always did" I smiled warmly. "You'll be an amazing queen one day!"

She smiled and mouthed "Thank you"

"We are ready your highness" Eddie came up behind us holding a hand towards the door. The guests were ready to arrive. The ball room was all set with drinks and food. I nodded towards the music to start.

"Let's go" I smiled taking my daughters hand and we got in position. I had a feeling this would be an amazing evening!

Rose

People were arriving and they each got a personal greeting from my father and I. The older gentlemen always arrived first. They all knew my father well and I knew most of them by name. I shook their hand a earned a few kisses on my hand. The first time I had a eighty year old man kiss my hand I had a grimace on my face and my father told me off after. I smiled towards the memory.

My father had invited a few friends from around the world as well. I've heard their names several times but none of their faces so far I recognised.

"Rosemarie, this is Lord and Lady Devereux" My fathers voice broke me out of my thoughts. I smiled looking in their direction. "They are very good friends and did great things during the revolution"

I smiled and took Lady Devereux hand, "It's lovely to meet you"

"It's my pleasure my princess, I have to say, you look exactly like your mother" she said her eyes shining with warmth, "You're dress is stunning as well"

I grinned, "I have a very talented maid" I admitted, "I sadly can't take the credit"

"She is very honest, I like that!" Lord Devereux chuckled. "Lovely to meet you Madame"

"You too" I smiled shaking his hand.

Like this the hour carried on. It was a big event, my father a calculated at least two hundred guests.

I sighed as my gaze wandered the room, everyone were either dancing or in conversation. A part of me ached to dance or mingle but the other side reminded me of the stalkers that were probably hiding in the crowds.

"Thinking of your Romanian lover?"

I jumped a little as Oscar's voice came out of no where. I smiled and rolled my eyes, "How did you know?"

Oscar laughed, "I could tell by the grimace on your face. Stay calm, I haven't seen him yet" he winked.

I sighed in relief, "Thank god"

"So, seen anyone you fancy so far?"

"Oscar" I laughed and elbowed him, he laughed with me. He was always having a laugh and that's why I think we worked so well together. I saw him as an uncle, he was just as protective as my father but he wasn't afraid to joke about a thing or two.

I shook my head, "No not yet" I sighed, "I'm afraid I'll die alone"

He huffed, "We both know that's a lie" I could see his gaze scanning the room. "What about Duke Wellington over by the orchestra? He's not too bad?"

"No, but the man barely has any hair" I snickered, "He combs it to hide his bald head"

I could see Oscar holding back laughter as I heard my father clear his throat. We both sobered up smiling angelic towards papa. He was just about to open his mouth when Eddie came over. "Prince Belikov just arrived"

"Ah, excellent! You have to meet his Rosemarie, he is a war hero and an excellent future ruler of Russia"

I raised my brows, "I've never heard of a Belikov before?"

"That's because you never listen" Oscar smiled and my papa smiled knowingly. I shot them both a glare and they laughed.

I crossed my arms over my chest and rolled my eyes as Oscar said something about the only things I paid attention to was food and shopping. I could hear my papa's laugh join in and I zoned out.

Letting my gaze wander a round the room my eyes stopped by the big entrance. I gasped slightly as I was taking him in.

He was tall, incredibly tall in fact. My eyes traveled from his shoes going up. Shiny shoes and a fitted pair of black trousers. The dark military green jacket he was wearing fit him impeccably. His broad shoulders were dressed in golden details and several medals attached to him chest. Continuing my very intriguing sight.

Brown hair barely touched his shoulders, a serious look painted his face as his eyes traveled around the room. His features were beautiful, he was fucking stunning to put it frankly. I know a princess nor a lady should swear but nobody could hear.

"I think you're drooling a little bit"

I jumped again as Oscar's voice scared me. I turned towards him shot him a deadly glare. He grinned and pointed with his hand, "Just here"

"I could just kill you-"

"Rosemarie"

My father's voice stopped me mid sentence and I suddenly felt another set of eyes on me. I swallowed as I straightened up and slowly turned towards my father. The incredibly handsome man was now right next to my father. His eyes were looking straight at me, I could see amusement flashing in his eyes. I swallowed. Shit.

"Rosemarie, this is Prince Dimitri Belikov of Russia. He has traveled far to be here tonight"

My eyes never left his and I licked my lips before meeting my papas gaze smiling.

"This is my daughter Princes Rosemarie Mazur" My father introduced us taking my hand placing it in his.

I felt my lips part as he bowed slightly, lift my hand to his lips, his eyes never leaving mine.

"It's a pleasure to meet King Ibrahim's beautiful daughter" The light kiss made me swallow again. I swear I could've fainted if my father and Oscar was right there. Staring.

Oscar cleared his throat and I blinked twice, "It's lovely to meet you too Prince Belikov?" I said his surname like it was a question.

He smiled warmly and nodded, "Charming" He nodded towards my father, "If you excuse me I know Lord Devereux is waiting for me"

"Of course, I will find you later tonight and we can talk" Papa said grinning proudly taking Dimitri's hand.

"Rosemarie" He smiled before he left. My gaze followed him as he walked away. I swallowed again, it was like my eyes were glued to him.

"I think someone's smitten"

I gasped as I heard the words leave Oscars mouth. I elbowed him and I could see my father shaking his head.

"I need a drink" I said starting to walk away from them.

"Rose I think you should know-"

I waved my hand to them letting them know I wasn't listening. I needed a drink fast and I needed to find Tasha. Stat.

SWOON! Ain't he just so freakin dreamy? hehe, let me know what's on your mind!

Lot's of Love