Lito waited patiently downstairs for Eliana, while Cedric stood in front of her room and berated her. Despite his insults, Eliana refused to let him ruin her day and simply ignored him. After a few minutes, she grabbed a small bag with some old clothes and made her way down the stairs. Her family glared at her with anger, but they knew that Lito was waiting for her downstairs and didn't dare say anything.
Eliana stood at the front door, her expression calm and determined. Lito, approached her with a request. "My lady, can you give me your bag for a moment?" he asked, eying the tattered dress she wore with disapproval. Eliana's bag contained only more worn-down dresses, a reminder of her lowly status despite her title. She handed her bag to Lito, who effortlessly tossed it to Cedric, who caught it with practiced precision. "Throw those away," Lito commanded with a wave of his hand. "They are useless. My lord has granted me some budget to buy you new clothes, so we will be leaving now." A sly grin formed on his mouth as he spoke, making fun of the fact that Eliana's family had no wealth.
As Lito and Eliana made their way through the quaint village of Willowbrook, the bustling. The air was filled with fresh earth, blooming wildflowers, and the soothing sounds of nature. The forest's canopy muffled the sounds of the market, creating an enchanting melody that stirred something deep within Eliana's soul. The cottages were made of wood and straw, each one more humble than the last. Despite the humble surroundings, Eliana couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over her. She hadn't stepped foot outside in weeks, trapped indoors by her cruel stepmother and stepbrother's demands. The cool breeze brushed against her sweaty skin, carrying the scent of wood smoke and fresh herbs. It was a far cry from the oppressive stench of their home, filled with neglect and decay.
They entered the marketplace, where stalls brimmed with various wares: colorful fabrics, handcrafted jewelry, and an array of exotic spices. Eliana's eyes widened as Lito led her past each stall, picking out the finest fabrics and most exquisite designs. He paid no mind to the cost, filling her bag with the most expensive dresses in Willowbrook. Each stranger who passed by whispered in awe at her presence, their eyes following her every movement. Lito ignored them, his focus solely on Eliana and her needs.
A vendor approached them with a bright smile, "My lady, these dresses are perfect for you!" She held up a midnight blue gown, adorned with shimmering gold embroidery and intricate beading. Lito nodded, and the vendor quickly prepared it for them. As she tried it on, Eliana could feel Lito's eyes roam over her figure appreciatively, his breath catching slightly. She blushed with embarrassment, unsure of how to process such attention. The dress fit her like a glove, hugging her curves, revealing the softness of her skin beneath. She twirled before the mirror, catching a glimpse of herself in awe. Never had she looked so regal, so radiant. Each dress was more stunning than the last, each fitting better than she'd dared to imagine.
"You must be thirsty, my lady," Lito said suddenly, leading her to an inn near the market. They sat at a table by the window, overlooking the River Elara as it glittered in the sunlight. The innkeeper brought them cool mint tea, served on fine china, its aroma filling the air with a refreshing scent. Eliana took a sip, the sweet taste bursting on her tongue like a symphony of flavors. She sighed gratefully, savoring every drop.
Lito's smile was gentle and reassuring. "You need not fear me, my lady. It was my lord's idea to provide you with new attire for the upcoming party. So please, don't thank me - all credit belongs to him." His smile felt like a cunning trap, waiting to see how his master would respond to being thanked by a woman. But in Eliana's mind, she was filled with gratitude towards Sebastian. He had shown her nothing but kindness, and she was eager to express her thanks.
"It is time for us to depart for Ravenwood. We cannot keep my lord waiting any longer," Lito declared, standing up and heading over to settle the bill with the workers. And so they left, making their way towards Ravenwood together.
After a considerable journey, they finally arrived at Ravenwood.
As they continued their journey inside, Eliana couldn't help but marvel at the bustling marketplace. It was a world away from the quiet humdrum of Willowbrook, with its cobblestone streets filled with chattering merchants and colorful stalls selling all manner of wares. She inhaled deeply, taking in the smell of freshly baked bread, meat roasting on spits, and the sweet scent of flowers. Lito guided her past a baker's shop where they stopped to watch a young girl expertly juggling loaves of bread; she giggled at the sight, the sound of the dough smacking against the wood echoing in her ears. A nearby blacksmith hammered away at his anvil, creating intricate designs for the wealthy nobles who milled around his stall, and Eliana felt the vibrations through her feet. A musician played a haunting tune on his flute, drawing her attention as they walked by, the melody winding around her like a siren's song.
They eventually reached Ravenwood mansion, its stone structures towering over them like a fortress. Lito led her past the gates, and she gasped at the grandeur of it all - this was nothing like the rundown cottage she called home. Instead of thatch roofs, there were slate tiles and stained glass windows that cast beautiful patterns on the ground below. Banners waved gently in the wind, each bearing the crest of Sebastian's family, the Silver Serpent. Butterflies danced through vibrant gardens tended by trained horticulturists, their wings flashing in the sunlight. It was a sight to behold.
Inside, the hall was abuzz with life. Countless servants scurried about, preparing for the upcoming events of the day. Music filled the air, the sound of strings and flutes creating a symphony that made Eliana's heart soar. "My lady, you are expected in the parlor," Lito informed her, gesturing towards a grand doorway adorned by gilded cherubs holding aloft candelabras. She nodded, walking through the doorway and into a room filled with laughter and joy. Ladies and lords alike graced this place, their voices blending in a harmonious chorus. Eliana felt like she belonged here, like she deserved to be part of this world.
Sebastian was there too, clad in striking attire that made him look like a king of old. He stood as they entered, his silver eyes warm and inviting. "I trust you had an enjoyable time?" he asked, his voice rich and deep. Eliana nodded, her cheeks flushing red at his kindness. Sebastian motioned for her to sit beside him, and she took his hand gratefully, feeling his warmth seep into her skin.
Everyone in the room looked at Sebastian how he took Eliana's hand and let her sit next to him. No one has ever seen him act this kind before.
Eliana's expression softened as she spoke, her voice filled with gratitude. Tears welled up in her eyes, but she quickly composed herself.
"I cannot thank you enough for everything," she said, her smile growing wider.
Sebastian returned her smile, his gaze lingering on Lito before he turned to face Eliana. "I have prepared a room for you. Why don't you go rest for the day?" His tone was gentle yet commanding, and Lito could sense the unspoken order in his words.
Lito stepped forward, his posture respectful. "Please allow me to escort you to your chamber, my lady," he said, offering her a small bow.
Eliana rose from her seat and bowed her head in return before following Lito out of the room.
As they walked away, Sebastian let out a soft sigh of relief. "Finally, she is safe," he murmured under his breath, ensuring that no one else could hear his words. The weight of responsibility lifted from his shoulders as he watched Eliana disappear down the hallway, knowing that she was now in good hands.