The bustling streets of the capital were alive with energy as Selene, Arabella, Astrid, and Camille stepped out of their carriages, their personal maids trailing behind them. The city streets were already alive with activity—merchants calling out their wares, carriages rolling along cobbled roads, and the scent of freshly baked pastries wafting from nearby bakeries.
"Where should we start?" Arabella asked, her emerald eyes glimmering with excitement. "Dresses first? Or gifts for Cedric?"
"Dresses," Astrid declared without hesitation. "We must look our best for the ball tonight."
Camille sighed dramatically. "As long as we don't spend three hours at one boutique like last time."
Selene smirked. "You act like you don't enjoy every second of it."
With that, they made their way to the most renowned dressmaker in the capital. The boutique's large glass windows displayed elegant gowns in various shades, each embroidered with intricate designs and shimmering beads. Upon entering, the girls were greeted by a team of seamstresses eager to assist them.
Arabella gravitated toward a deep crimson gown, running her fingers over the delicate lace sleeves. "This is perfect."
Selene, on the other hand, took her time. She admired an array of dresses before settling on a midnight blue gown with silver embroidery that cascaded down the fabric like falling stars.
Astrid chose a pale silver gown with subtle yet intricate detailing, while Camille found a lavender dress that complemented her complexion beautifully.
"Now, accessories," Arabella announced, leading them to another section of the boutique where gloves, jewelry, and hair ornaments were displayed.
The girls selected pieces that matched their gowns—delicate tiaras, pearl earrings, and silk gloves. Their maids, who had been quietly following along, gathered their purchases, their arms now full of elegantly wrapped boxes.
From there, they moved on to find gifts for Cedric. They browsed through fine leather-bound books, rare wines, and handcrafted cufflinks, each girl selecting something that suited Cedric's taste.
By the time they finished, their maids were nearly overwhelmed with packages.
"I think we've done enough damage for today," Camille mused, glancing at the sheer number of bags.
Selene chuckled. "Let's return and get some rest before the ball."
***
Back at the academy, the girls parted ways to freshen up before reconvening in Selene and Arabella's shared room. Their maids had already laid out their dresses, along with neatly arranged accessories.
As they lounged in their robes, sipping tea and chatting about the upcoming ball, Arabella turned to Selene. "You never told me what you got Cedric."
Selene smirked. "A rare first edition of his favorite novel. He's been searching for it for years."
Arabella's eyes widened. "That's incredibly thoughtful. He's going to love it."
Astrid sighed dreamily. "I hope tonight is as magical as it should be. A grand ball, fine wine, beautiful gowns—what more could we ask for?"
Camille raised a brow. "Perhaps for a certain duke's son to finally confess his feelings properly?"
Arabella stiffened slightly but quickly recovered, sipping her tea with feigned indifference. "We'll see."
Their maids soon returned, prepared to dress them. The room filled with the rustling of fabric as they slipped into their gowns. Their hair was styled into elegant updos, and delicate touches of perfume lingered in the air.
Once ready, they admired themselves in the large mirror.
Selene's midnight blue gown shimmered under the candlelight, the silver embroidery catching every flicker. Arabella's crimson dress hugged her form gracefully, bold and striking. Astrid and Camille looked equally radiant in their chosen ensembles.
A knock at the door signaled that their carriages were waiting.
Stepping out into the cool evening air, they climbed into their respective carriages—Selene and Arabella in one, Astrid and Camille in another. Their maids followed in a third, ensuring all their belongings arrived safely.
As the carriages set off toward Cedric's estate, excitement buzzed between them.
Tonight was going to be unforgettable.