It had been a week and a few days since I moved into Seraphine's castle, and I was starting to feel the weight of it all. The days seemed to blur together, each one filled with nothing more than eating, sleeping, and reading.
Not that reading books was annoying, but I was tired of the monotony. I longed to go outside, to do something—anything. A simple walk in the gardens, a ride through the woods, or even visiting the guilds.
But I couldn't. Not until I was marked by Seraphine, which was a problem. As a guest, I was restricted, unable to fully engage in any activities that might hint at a permanent status here.
And then there was Seraphine. I didn't know it was possible for someone to try so hard. She seemed to look for me everywhere, her presence becoming overwhelming. At some point, I had started hiding from her, finding refuge in the more obscure corners of the castle or the vast library.
"Is Seraphine a stalker?" I sighed, muttering to myself as I soaked in the bath. The warm water did little to ease my frustration.
After a while, I decided to get out, wrapping myself in a plush towel. I took my time dressing, pulling on a simple yet elegant dress, perfect for another uneventful lunch.
As I prepared myself mentally for Seraphine's inevitable attempt at conversation, I couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt. She was trying, after all, but I just couldn't bring myself to let my guard down.
I made my way to the dining hall, my steps echoing softly against the marble floors. When I arrived, Seraphine was already there, looking up with a hopeful smile as I entered.
"Good afternoon, Riley," she greeted, her tone warm.
"Good afternoon," I replied, taking my seat across from her.
The meal began in relative silence, the only sounds being the clinking of silverware and the soft rustle of fabric. I focused on my plate, hoping to avoid another awkward conversation.
Seraphine cleared her throat. "Did you enjoy your morning?"
I shrugged. "It was fine. Just read some more."
"What book are you reading?" she asked, her eyes bright with interest.
"Just a historical novel," I replied curtly, not wanting to delve into details.
"Ah, history can be fascinating," Seraphine said, trying to keep the conversation alive. "I've always enjoyed learning about the different cultures and events that shaped our world."
"Mm-hmm," I mumbled, my focus still on my food.
An uncomfortable silence settled over us again. I could feel Seraphine's eyes on me, but I refused to look up. I didn't want to give her any hope that I was softening.
Finally, Seraphine sighed. "Riley, I know this situation isn't ideal for you. I just want to make things better."
I looked up, meeting her gaze for the first time during the meal. "Then let me go outside. Let me do something."
Seraphine's face fell slightly. "You know I can't do that until—"
"Until I'm marked. Yes, I know," I interrupted, frustration creeping into my voice. "But this is suffocating."
"I'm sorry," Seraphine said softly. "I just want you to be safe."
"I'm not a prisoner, Seraphine. I need some freedom," I insisted.
She looked torn, her red and purple eyes filled with a mixture of concern and regret. "I understand, Riley. I'll see what I can do."
With that, we finished our meal in silence. Afterward, I retreated to the library, finding solace among the bookshelves. I picked out another book and settled into one of the cozy armchairs, trying to lose myself in the pages.
But my mind kept drifting back to Seraphine. Her efforts, her persistence. Was it possible that she genuinely cared for me? Or was it just a sense of duty, a way to secure her perfect match?
Hours passed, and I barely noticed the time slipping away. The library was my sanctuary, the only place where I felt a semblance of peace. Eventually, a maid entered, informing me that dinner would be served soon. I nodded, reluctantly closing my book and heading to the dining hall once more.
As expected, Seraphine was already there, waiting for me. This time, her expression was more serious, as if she had something important to say.
"Riley," she began as I sat down, "I've been thinking about what you said earlier."
I looked at her, curious. "And?"
"And I've decided that you're right. You need some freedom. So, I've arranged for you to be able to go outside the castle grounds. Just within the forest outside," she said, her tone cautious.
I couldn't hide my surprise. "Really?"
"Yes. I want you to feel comfortable here, Riley. I don't want you to feel like a prisoner," Seraphine said, her eyes sincere.
"Thank you," I said, genuinely grateful. "That means a lot."
A small smile tugged at the corners of her lips. "I'm glad. Also, there's something else."
I raised an eyebrow. "What is it?"
"We've been invited to a ball," Seraphine announced, watching my reaction closely. "It's being hosted by your sister, Lydia."
"A ball?" I repeated, taken aback. "Lydia invited us?"
"Yes," Seraphine confirmed. "She thought it might be a good opportunity for us to... socialize more."
I couldn't help but chuckle at the irony. Lydia always did have a flair for dramatic gestures. "Alright. When is it?"
"Tomorrow evening," Seraphine replied. "I hope that's okay with you."
I nodded. "It's fine. I'll go."
Seraphine's smile widened. "Great. I'm looking forward to it."
As the conversation shifted to the details of the ball, I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief. Maybe this was a step in the right direction. Maybe, just maybe, things could get better.