Hey guys so here is the party scene that everyone is excited to read about. I am excited to see what you guys think about this one so let me know by reviews. Ok without further ado here is chapter 5!

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The days passed by quickly for the house of Doyle until it reached the morning of the party. Maura had awoken from her slumber and was barely aware it was her birthday. She had now reached the age of fourteen but did not feel any different. Then Maura realized that her party was occurring tonight and this got her wide awake. Yes she was still nervous over the party and what would happen, but she was going to take the advice of her parents. The Doyle's had been busy the past week and a half trying to get everything together. All the preparations and necessities needed for the fast approaching ball. Maura had decided to theme her birthday ball into a masquerade ball. She found the cultures and civilizations that adorn themselves with masks interesting as to ward off evil spirits and hide one's identity. In the best interests of her parents and her family name, Maura was going to monitor herself tonight and hide her true self, which she found the masks to be very helpful in her main purpose of tonight. Maura is currently looking at her reflection in the mirror. Maura may have not felt different but her physical attributes were maturing and she could see it as she was becoming more of a woman. Maura sighed, hoping tonight would be a success and she could finally consider herself normal. Unbeknownst to her, Hope had been watching her daughter in the doorway and was trying to read her. Hope had known that tonight still made Maura anxious but she hoped that tonight would cause Maura to comfortably come out her shell. One thing she was worried about was the male suitors that would be present for tonight's event. She had not gone over to Maura that she was of age to look for a future husband in order not to frighten the poor girl. But she had known that some of the families they had invited would prepare their sons to try to steal the young girl's heart in order to gain power through marriage. Hope did not want that for her daughter, because if were the case with Patty, Hope would not be here today. There is so much pressure put on these young kids by their parents that both she and Patty did not want for Maura but for her to choose her partner based off of love. She finally decided to pull Maura back into reality.

"Well good morning to the most beautiful girl in the world" Hope said that had Maura turn around to face her mother.

"Mother! You startled me. Thank you mother and father too for everything" Maura answered back and smiled shyly.

Hope walked up to Maura and looked at her through the mirror. "You do want this party don't you?"

"Yes mother truly I do. I just still feel a bit uneasy" Maura said truthfully.

Hope nodded but knew her surprise would put her in a better mood. "Well dear you'll be fine. And besides I have a present for you. Janice come inside" Hope called in one of their maids.

Janice entered the room with a box, walked up to Maura, and waited for Maura to take it.

Maura takes it eying her mother curiously then opens the box. Maura's face turns to sheer shock as she views the contents of the box. "Mother…" Maura stammered, "It's absolutely beautiful. Are you sure it's alright?" she asked timidly.

Hope smiled back and nodded her head, "Of course sweet heart it's yours to keep. But let's surprise your father ok?"

Maura smiled knowingly and nodded her head. "Of course mother."

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Time went by quick and before anyone knew it the sunset had emerged signaling that the ball was to begin. The hall looked grand when the servants and maids were finished with it that would make anyone proud. Patrick currently was observing the room full of people that are here attending his little angel's ball. Patty made sure everything was in order so his daughter would have the best birthday ever. He had been finished for about two hours now playing host and waiting for the main event to arrive. Several acquaintances had arrived and made themselves known to being present which Doyle had appreciated. Many families were introducing their young men to him hoping they get recognized and could start trying to court his daughter. He was never worried about Maura. Though she was shy and quiet, she had her opinions and was not afraid to stand by them just like Hope. Patrick smiled thinking about his wife and how strong an individual she was. She never needed help with anything but Doyle never let her do anything alone anyway. When he found out Hope was pregnant, though he wanted a son to take over the throne and keep the family name, he was happy to have a daughter to looked and acted just like his amazing wife. He truly was a lucky man for finding Hope and was blessed for having Maura as his daughter. Something caught the corner of his eye and when he saw what it was and his mouth dropped in complete shock.

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When Maura was completely finished getting ready, she looked in the mirror making her smile and was happy with her appearance. She did not feel like the awkward little girl but a pretty young woman she had hoped to be. Then she began to walk out of the room and into the corridor and made her way to the main hall. She saw the figure of her mother talking to one of maids then she looked to her daughter.

"Oh Maura sweet heart you look absolutely beautiful darling" Hope said beaming at her daughter.

Maura looked down and blushed having a difficult time accepting the complement. The nerves were running through, making her stomach uneasy and she was more prone to uncontrollable hives appearing. "Thank you mother."

Hope looked at Maura for another minute then said, "Alright dear are you ready to go?"

Maura nodded her head and sighed, "As ready as I'll ever be." Hope smiled, grabbed Maura's hand and they started to walk to the entrance way. When Maura saw the hall she was trying to keep her mouth from dropping. Candle where lit all over that created a mysterious darkness in the room. There were hundreds of people dancing in the middle of the ballroom adorn with beautiful costumes and masks that made everyone unique in their own way. A live orchestra was playing their known Irish music that made the room lively. While Maura was observing the room everyone else was observing her. Maura spotted her father immediately and she made her way toward him. The party guest parted like the red sea gawking at her like she was not from this world. Maura had been wearing a beautiful white dress that was long sleeved and had white fur along the trim; this was her mother's dress that Patty had first seen her in long ago. Her hair had been pulled up partially up but had several strains of hair cascading along her shoulder down to her chest. The last item she adorned was chain necklace with a pendent of a ladybug that Patty's mother had given to Hope to wear for her wedding day. Once she reached her father, he was like everyone else watching her but then he broke out into a grin. " Angel….I wow" Patty said having a hard time finding the words that were enough to say. "You look so like your mother when she was your age. It makes me think I've gone back in time."

Maura was beaming because for once she did not feel nervous or awkward but honestly happy.

Patrick looks over to the orchestra, "Alright let the music play and everyone enjoy themselves" he said while offering his hand as an invitation for a dance which she accepted. The sound of Irish folktale erupted in the hall and made everyone else have the desire to dance. She started to move in a circle along with her father as they began the proper way of Irish dancing. She was taught this when she was young and found enjoyment when her and her father would practice which ended up being one of her favorite activities with him. As the dance continued the smiles on each both their faces increased until they were laughing together like when she was a little girl. Hope watched the love of her life and their little girl that was rapidly beginning to grow up, in their own world. Hope never felt happier or prouder than in that moment. When the dance finally ended everyone stopped and clapped their hands and smiled and Maura couldn't help feel how tonight was already going so well.

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After the end of the first dance Maura talks with her parents for a little while and gets introduced by many of her father's friends and associates. It's been a long time since Maura has had a conversation with someone other than her parents or the servants but now she has to talk triple the amount. Along with father's friends Maura is introduced to many of their sons that are relatively her age. She was asked to dance and danced with many of these boys that wanted one thing, a chance at courting her. Maura knew what was expected of those of her age to begin to look for suitable spouses. Maura never really cared for looking for that person because she never believed she would find the love her parents have. Maura did not want to have to settle but that may happen because only some people find the love of their lives. She met many nice, charming gentlemen here like Garrett Fairfield who was to take over his father's business and Ian Falkner who was studying to become a doctor. Both charming, handsome, and polite but she felt she could not be her true self in front of them and they would still remain interested. They would converse with her and she would politely reply back but she lacked the desire to talk to these young men who thought so highly of themselves and them being the higher class being more important. She was not expecting the shock of what would occur tonight.

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"Lady Doyle, fancy meeting you here again" the voice of Garret Fairfield could be heard even if Maura tried to ignore him.

Maura tried to keep a straight face, turned around, and acknowledged him, "Mr. Fairfield we meet again" for the seventh time Maura thought trying to keep the annoyance out of her voice.

"Well when someone is as beautiful as you, how could I keep away?" Garret said trying to be charming.

Well he is nice for commenting me so much, Maura thought, but enough is enough.

Maura forced a smile on her lips, "What can I do for you Mr. Fairfield?" Maura asked as politely as possible.

"Well first you can stop calling me that. Sounds like you're talking to my father. Call me Garret or I'll take Prince Charming if you prefer" he replied. "How about another dance with a handsome man" he said cockily.

"Umm…." Maura started trying to find a way to refuse his request. I can't take his 'I love myself speech' anymore she thought.

Just before she could answer a voice came out of nowhere and spoke, "Hey Prince Charming, mind if I cut in?"

Both Maura and Garret looked for the voice's owner and finally found it. This newcomer was wearing black pants with brown boots over it with a white long sleeved shirt and a black vest covering it. Their face had been covered by a black and silver mask that covered below the cheek bone and a brown pirate hat with a silver feather. Even with this simple attire Maura had great difficulty keeping her eyes off this strange person.

Garret was the first to speak, "Excuse me but the Lady and I were having a private conversation which you rudely interrupted" he spoke boldly trying to get his point across to this stranger to back off.

The stranger had a slight smirk and then replied, "Well no disrespect sir but her majesty had given me permission to dance with her prior…" they began but were cut off quickly.

"Well the Lady can decline an invitation whenever she likes and especially since she's busy. You should move on" Garret shot back rudely getting annoyed of their intruder.

Maura was questioning the stranger's motive. Obviously they are trying to get Garret away but why? She knew to be cautious especially with unknown people but this person did not seem dangerous and Maura was quite intrigued by this individual. When she had enough of this fighting over her with her standing right there she spoke, "Garret, I did make a promise and I am going to fulfill my promises like I always do so if you'll excuse us" Maura said politely but tried to get point across. The stranger smiled at Garret's irritation but tried to hide it.

"Well my Lady if you need me, come find me" he said and took her hand and kissed it making sure that the other saw and walked away.

The stranger walked up to Maura, "Geese what does he have a claim to you or something?" they said with a smile on their face.

Oh that voice, Maura thought that had sent a chill down her spine. "What's it to you? Who are you anyhow" Maura said boldly wanting to know the stranger's purpose.

The stranger smiled again at this, "Touché" they remarked. "And I am just a party guest that wishes to have a dance with the birthday girl if that's possible" they asked questioningly.

Maura sighs, "I guess one dance won't hurt" she replies having a smirk of her own appear. She grabs the stranger's hand and led them to the dancing area. Maura felt a spark go through her arm but tried to ignore it. Just then the orchestra had started to play a slow song that would have her and her mysterious partner closer together. Perfect Maura remarked in her head.

"Oh I'm not a bad dancer your highness" they said softly.

"Well see about that" Maura responded getting closer to her new dance partner and slightly enjoying it.

The person laughed at that. "Oh please you wanted to get rid of that pompous ass as much as I did" they said boldly.

"Language! And you have no idea what you are talking about" Maura exclaims.

"Oh really. Honestly then tell me that I am completely wrong" they dared.

Maura looked up and realized how tall they were, at least a head taller. The clothes fit them very well showing their thinness yet some muscularity too. Then she started gazing at those amazing dark brown eyes that were putting her in a trance. Maura looks away not responding to the question.

"That's what I thought!" they remarked with a smile on their face. Maura mentally rolled her eyes trying to ignore the sudden urge to get even closer.

"So are you going to tell me who you are?" Maura asked curiously.

"I think I will have to deny your request. I prefer being a mystery." They said staring at her with intense eyes.

Maura could not help but longingly stare back. What's wrong with me? She thought trying to get her thoughts together. "Well it's my birthday. And I demand to know your identity."

"Well sorry sweetheart but you'll be very disappointed then" bringing their voice down even lower. "Tell me something?" they surprisingly said.

"What do you mean?" Maura asked with a confused face.

"Tell me something about yourself. Not what you tell people like that guy or anyone you're trying to impress. Tell me something about you that's really you" they finally finished.

Maura had to consider this. Who does this person think they are? To ask something so personal? Maybe because you have a crush voice stated. Wait what?! Maura was trying to formulate an honest answer. "I like to read a lot. In fact I prefer to read instead of interact with other people" she said quickly. Wait did I just say that?

"Yea I know what you mean. I necessarily don't like people either. They don't like people that are different" they responded back.

Well I wasn't expecting that. "I would have to agree with you" she said.

"See we can have a decent conversation" they responded jokingly that left them both with smiles.

Maura decided to be lower her walls again. "I think you're the first person besides my parents to want to know the real me."

"Well let's just say you intrigue me Ms. Doyle. And not many people do that" they said.

"Why is that?" Maura asked questioningly.

"Well I had this theory and I was right."

"Tell me."

"You are not just another pretty face. And you are not like the rest of those who believe themselves superior above everyone else."

This statement shocked Maura. This is bold to say especially to a princess who is at the peak of the social latter. I guess were both different. Maura thought this and smiled.

"You should do that more often" they spoke all of a sudden.

"Do what?"

"Smile. It makes you look even more beautiful" they respond with a serious look on their face.

Maura looks away as she began to blush. She is pulled in closer from having the strangers arms wrap around her body. Feels amazing in their arms. She looks up again and sees they are looking right back at her with intense eyes. Brown and hazel eyes meet while experiencing the feelings that this has happened before but where? They look down at Maura's lips then back to her eyes. Are they going to try to kiss me? Maura questions having conflicting feelings. I don't even think I could stop it. Don't think I'd want to. Before anything could happen their moment was rudely interrupted.

"Lady Doyle your parents are looking for you!" A gleeful Garret approaches happy from stopping a possible life altering kiss. Dammit.

Maura looks at him, "I'll be right there." Then she looks back at her mysterious friend. "Can we continue this once I am finished with my parents?" asking hopefully.

"I really should get going anyway" they responded.

This caused Maura's heart to drop not wanting this new connection to disappear. "Why? Please stay" she almost begs.

They sigh and looked back with saddened eyes. "I'm sorry my Lady but I need to get going."

"Well then tell me your name?" she asked wanting to know something. Anything.

"I think I'll remain mysterious longer" they smile trying to cheer her up.

"Who are you? Please tell me something about you." Maura is begging trying to have them stay for as long as possible.

"I'm someone that doesn't belong here. In your world. That is why I must go" they replied suddenly. They get close and grab her hand and kiss it softly for a prolong amount of time. They moved even closer putting a hand on Maura's cheek moving the hair from her eyes. "I am glad I had the chance to dance and talk to you tonight" they said sweetly. "Hope you have you have a wonderful birthday and maybe one day we will cross paths again. Good night your highness" they said moving their face close to Maura's and giving her a sweet kiss on her cheek and with that they backed up, turned around, and walked away getting lost in a sea of people.

Maura stood there frozen for a little while trying to process everything. I think I met my other half. For someone who was doubtful she'd meet anyone close to that was experiencing all those feelings of attachment that could eventually lead to love. Trying to bring herself back to reality, Maura closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and started walking toward the direction of her parents.

Oh what a night.

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Ok so here is chapter 5! OK so I am currently finished this at 4:38 am because I could not get this out of my head. So what did you guys think? I really enjoyed writing this chapter and it is my favorite so far. So please tell me your thoughts and opinions. I am posting this now because I will be on vacation for the next couple of days so I will not be writing until I get back sorry guys but now I can really think about where this story is headed. Ok well thanks for those who are reading this and share some thoughts please! Ok have a good day guys I'll update in about a week or so alright bye!