As Edward entered his bedchamber and leaned against the closed door, his mind swirling with thoughts of the impending ball and his encounter with Jacob, a soft meow interrupted his musings. He looked down to see his tiny kitten, Angel, winding around his ankles. Edward scooped up the fluffy white kitten, cradling her against his chest. Angel's soft fur and gentle purrs were a soothing balm to his troubled soul. He walked and sank down onto the edge of his bed, still clutching the lily Jacob had given him. "Oh Angel," Edward murmured, stroking the kitten's tiny head, "if only life could be as simple and pure as you. No expectations, no duties, just love and warmth." Angel mewed softly in response, nuzzling against Edward's hand as he absently caressed her.
Edward sighed, his eyes drifting to the lily resting on his lap. He thought of Jacob, his kind words, and the silent understanding that passed between them. At least he had that, he thought. A friend who understood him, even if nothing could come of it.
The day of reckoning neared, and Edward found himself in a plush, velvet-draped carriage with his mother, Lady Cullen (Esme Cullen) . The clip-clop of hooves on cobblestone filled the silence between them as they journeyed to Madame Élise's boutique.Esme's eyes flicked to Edward, her son's face pale and his hands folded tightly in his lap. "Edward, dear," she began, her tone carefully measured. "We'll find you the most splendid gown at Madame Élise's. The gentlemen won't be able to resist you." Edward offered his mother a small smile, appreciative of her efforts. "I know, Mother. I want to make you and Father proud," he said softly.
Esme took Edward's hands in hers, her eyes filled with maternal determination. "Edward, listen to me. Marriage is not just a union, it's a strategic alliance. It reinstates our family name, brings economical value, and allows you to finally become the proper lady you were meant to be once you presented as omega." She squeezed his hands gently. "And who knows? Perhaps you'll even find love. Some alpha at the ball will cherish you, protect you, and give you the children you deserve." Edward nodded, swallowing hard against the lump in his throat. "I understand, Mother. I'll do my best to make a good impression," Edward replied, his voice steady despite the turmoil in his heart. The carriage slowed to a stop, and a footman opened the door. They had arrived at Madame Élise's boutique, the pinnacle of fashion in London.
As Edward stepped out of the carriage, the cool air hit his face, a stark contrast to the stuffiness inside. He smoothed down his day dress, steeling himself for the ordeal ahead. Madame Élise herself greeted them at the door, her eyes sparkling with avarice as they landed on Edward. "Ah, Lady Cullen! And this must be your beautiful son, Miss Edward," she gushed, curtsying deeply. "I have prepared some of my finest gowns for him to try on. Come, come!" She ushered them inside, her silken skirts rustling.
The boutique was a riot of colors, fabrics, and frills. Edward felt overwhelmed as Madame Élise led them to a private dressing room filled with an array of exquisite gowns. "Now, now, Miss Edward, let us find you something truly special for the ball," Madame Élise began holding up various dresses, her hands a blur of silk, lace, and taffeta. "This one in deep crimson would set off your porcelain skin beautifully. And this emerald green could make you the envy of every omega there." She paused, eyeing Edward critically. "But perhaps... yes! This ivory satin with gold embroidery. It screams 'proper lady' and 'virginal purity'. Perfect for catching an alpha's eye and sealing your future." She thrust the gown at Edward, her smile sharp and knowing.
Edward took the gown numbly, his eyes flicking to the intricate golden pattern that shimmered under the room's soft light. He could practically feel the weight of expectations heavy on his shoulders. As he stepped into the dressing room to change, he caught his reflection in the mirror.His image staring back was that of a stranger - a young twenty year old man with wide, frightened eyes, pale skin, and delicate features. He looked like an omega, he supposed, but not one who belonged in a grand ball, being paraded around like a prized mare.Sighing, he unbuttoned his day dress and let it fall to the ground. As he stepped into the ivory gown, Madame Élise assisted him, lacing up the back tightly. The bodice was snug, pushing up his breasts and making him look more buxom than he was.
The gold embroidery seemed to glow against the pure white satin, making him feel like a walking work of art. He stared at his reflection, the image of a proper lady staring back at him - the very picture of omega perfection. A soft knock at the door broke his trance. "Edward, darling? Are you decent? May we come in?" It was his mother's voice, laced with barely contained excitement. Before he could respond, the door swung open and Esme came in , her eyes widening as she took in his appearance.
"Oh, Edward! You look...you look absolutely breathtaking," she breathed, her hands fluttering to her chest. "Madame Élise, you were right. This is the one." The dressmaker beamed smugly . Edward's cheeks flushed pink under their scrutiny. He felt like a piece of meat on display. "It's...very nice," he murmured, running a hand over the cool, smooth fabric. "Will it do?" Madame Élise clapped her hands together gleefully. "Do?" "My dear Miss Edward, it will do more than that. In this gown, you will be the most stunning omega at the ball. Every alpha will be clamoring for your attention." She winked knowingly. "Now, shall we discuss accessories? A few select pieces to complement the gown..." Edward nodded dumbly, feeling another wave of unease wash over him. This was really happening. Tomorrow, he would be paraded around the ball, judged by scores of alphas, and likely betrothed to one by the end of the night.
As Madame Élise began pulling out glittering jewels, Edward couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. He wasn't ready for this. He hadn't asked for any of this. But ready or not, tomorrow night, his life would change forever. And there was nothing he could do to stop it.