As the Hallow Ball approached, excitement buzzed throughout the mansion. Servants scurried about, adding final touches to the decor, while the sound of carriages arriving echoed in the distance. Victoria, however, stood alone in her bedroom, her gaze fixed on the flurry of activity outside her window.
The memory of her conversation with her mother lingered in her mind, casting a shadow over the impending festivities. With a determined sigh, Victoria made her way towards Emma's room.
As she reached Emma's door, Victoria hesitated for a moment, uncertainty gnawing at her resolve. But the weight of her thoughts pushed her forward, and she raised her hand to knock softly.
The door swung open, revealing Emma amidst the chaos of getting ready for the ball.Victoria's eyes swept over the array of dresses and adornments strewn about the room, but her focus remained on Emma.
"Emma, can we talk?" Victoria asked softly, her voice carrying a hint of vulnerability.
Emma glanced up from her preparations, her brow furrowing in concern. "Of course, Vi. What is it?" she replied, motioning for her sister to take a seat.
Victoria took a deep breath, her heart heavy with the weight of her thoughts. "I feel like we've been growing distant lately," she began, her voice tinged with uncertainty " And it's bothering me".
Emma's brow furrowed slightly, a flicker of acknowledgment crossing her features. "I hadn't noticed," she admitted, her voice gentle.
Victoria met Emma's gaze, her grip tightening on Emma's hand. "Emma listen, no matter what happens, I want you to know that you'll always be like a sister to me," she said, her words filled with emotion. "I'll always love you, protect you, and care for you. And no matter what challenges we face, I'll never leave you behind. I'll always be here for you."
Emma's eyelid twitched , a small smile playing at her lips. "Thank you, Victoria. That means a lot to me," she replied, her voice devoid of emotion
But as Victoria returned Emma's smile, a pang of doubt lingered in her heart. Despite Emma's reassurances, a nagging feeling told her that something was amiss. She pushed the thought aside, forcing herself to focus on the present moment, but deep down, she couldn't shake the feeling that Emma wasn't been sincere.
Both sisters stared at each other with smiles on their face but different thoughts.
As Victoria stepped out of Emma's room, her mind still reeling from their conversation, she collided with Madeline. Startled, Madeline quickly apologized, bowing with an innocent smile. Victoria's anger simmered beneath the surface, but she forced herself to maintain composure. Ignoring Madeline's gesture, she brushed past her, walking away with determined steps.
Madeline watched her go, her smile faltering for a moment before she resumed her innocent facade.
As she entered Emma's room and closed the door, she couldn't help but inquire about Victoria's visit " Why was Victoria here?" Emma, eager to share, recounted every detail of their conversation.
Madeline listened intently, her expression growing increasingly skeptical.
"Emma, you mustn't be deceived," Madeline warned with a scoff. "Victoria is like a green snake in a green grass."
Emma furrowed her brow, unsure of what to make of Madeline's ominous words. Before she could respond, Madeline swiftly changed the subject.
"So, about the ball," Madeline said, trying to lighten the mood. "What dress are you planning to wear?"
Emma's face lit up as she described her choice " it's a beautiful yellow dress ", Madeline gasped dramatically, unable to contain her disbelief.
"A yellow dress? Oh, Emma, darling, you have such unique taste," Madeline teased, playfully mocking her friend's fashion sense.
Emma's smile faltered, surprised by Madeline's reaction. She hesitated for a moment before asking tentatively, "Is something wrong with the dress? Vi was the one who chose it."
Madeline's frown deepened in disgust as she contemplated Emma's choice. "Oh, dear Emma, the green dress would have looked exquisite on you," she suggested with a subtle shake of her head. "But perhaps Victoria persuaded you to wear the yellow one so she wouldn't be outshined at the ball."
Emma's eyes widened in surprise at Madeline's suggestion. She had never considered such motives behind Victoria's actions. Doubt crept into her mind as she glanced at the yellow dress hanging in her wardrobe.
"Do you really think so?" Emma asked, her voice tinged with uncertainty.
Mathilda nodded solemnly. "Trust me, Emma. Victoria may not have your best interests at heart."
Emma pondered Madeline's words, her thoughts swirling with newfound suspicion. Perhaps there was more to Victoria's actions than met the eye. With a sigh, she resolved to reconsider her choice of attire for the ball.
Elvira stood gracefully by the ornate door, the butler, Mr. Thompson, poised behind her, a silent presence ready to assist. As the guests arrived, she greeted them warmly, exchanging pleasantries and ensuring they felt welcome in her home.
"Good evening, Mrs. Blackwood. So lovely to see you again," Elvira said with a genuine smile as she embraced an elegant woman adorned in pearls.
"Thank you, Elvira. Your home is always a delight to visit," Mrs. Blackwood replied with a charming smile.
Meanwhile, Mathilda, the head maid, approached Elvira with a slight bow. "Madam, everything is in order for this evening's gathering," she informed, her voice steady and respectful.
"Thank you, Mathilda. Please go and call the girls," Elvira instructed, her tone gracious yet firm.
Mathilda nodded, acknowledging the instruction, before gracefully retreating to fulfill her task.
As the guests mingled, sipping champagne and admiring the exquisite decor, Elvira engaged in lively conversation, effortlessly moving from one group to another, ensuring everyone felt included and entertained.