"I can become whoever I wish whenever I want," she murmured, a bitter edge to her voice. "And I chose this."
The words lingered in the air, heavy with dissatisfaction. Her evening gown clung to her pale skin, its intricate embroidery catching the light and making her look ethereal. Yet the beauty felt foreign, like a mask she was forced to wear. Her sleek pearly brown hair was pulled into a meticulously styled bun, a silver chain resting delicately against her neck. Her big navy eyes, usually filled with determination, now shimmered with secrets untold and sleepless thoughts that weighed heavily on her mind.
The sound of a gentle knock at the door startled her from her reverie. She straightened, forcing composure into her posture.
"Yes?" she asked, her voice smooth like silk, though it couldn't hide the pain that gnawed at her with every breath.
"Madam, the esteemed guests have arrived," a gentle voice informed from behind the door.
"I will be there in a minute," she sighed, the words echoing through the room.
Elvira turned back to the vanity, her gaze landing on the silver tiara that gleamed invitingly. She picked it up with trembling fingers and placed it atop her head, the weight of the ornate crown both literal and symbolic. Drawing in a deep breath, she reached for the door knob, steadying herself before opening it.
As she descended the grand staircase, the opulent scene of the ball unfolded before her. Crystal chandeliers sparkled like captured starlight, and the polished marble floors reflected the elegance of the evening gowns and tailored suits worn by the elite guests. The music swirled through the air, a symphony of violins and laughter.
Elvira's gaze swept across the crowd until it landed on a man with a tan complexion, green eyes, and blonde hair that gleamed under the lights. There was something oddly familiar about him, but before she could dwell on it, her father appeared at the bottom of the staircase, holding out his hand for her.
"Elvira," he greeted warmly, his eyes crinkling with pride.
She descended the last step and took his hand tightly, a forced smile on her lips. The master of ceremonies cleared his throat and announced, "Miss Elvira Pierce." The hall filled with applause, and Elvira's heart raced as dozens of eyes turned toward her.
Before she could catch her breath, her father guided her toward a distinguished guest. "Elvira, I want you to meet Lord Ronin Bloodstone. He is my late cousin's son."
The man before her was pale, with straight black hair and eyes the color of deep wine. His tailored black shirt and trousers fit his well-toned frame perfectly. There was a quiet confidence in his demeanor that demanded attention.
"Pleasure to meet you, Miss Elvira," Ronin said smoothly, taking her hand and kissing it gently.
"The pleasure is mine," Elvira responded, a polite smile curving her lips.
Their eyes met, and for a fleeting moment, the bustling crowd faded into the background. The intensity of his gaze was almost overwhelming, but before Elvira could decipher the emotions swirling within, her mother's voice cut through the spell.
"There you are! I've been looking everywhere for you," her mother exclaimed.
Elvira barely had time to respond before her mother grabbed her hand and pulled her away. They weaved through the crowd until they reached a regal-looking woman with tightly coiled black hair and piercing green eyes that seemed to see straight into one's soul. Standing behind her were two young men around Elvira's age.
"Elvira, I want you to meet Lady Verona and her two sons, Anson Adler Ashford and Alanza Adler Ashford," her mother introduced.
Alanza, the green-eyed one with a mischievous smirk, stepped forward and kissed Elvira's hand. "Beautiful as ever, Miss Elvira," he said, his tone dripping with charm.
Elvira felt a shiver run down her spine at the way he looked at her, but she forced herself to maintain composure. Her gaze shifted to Anson, whose lilac eyes were unlike anything she had ever seen. His beautiful black curly hair was neatly styled, and he stood with a serious expression that contrasted sharply with his brother's playful demeanor.
Elvira's thoughts were interrupted by Lady Verona's commanding voice. "Elvira, Anson, follow me."
"What about me, Lady Colette?" Alanza asked with a playful pout.
"You may come too if you wish," Lady Colette replied, though her tone lacked enthusiasm.
"Don't be foolish, Colette," Lady Verona interjected sternly. "Alanza has nothing to do with this matter. Stay here, boy."
With that, they ascended the staircase and entered a private sitting room. Lady Colette closed the door behind them and gestured for everyone to sit. Once they were seated, she folded her hands primly in her lap.
"Elvira, Lady Verona and I have decided to betroth you to Anson," she declared.
Elvira's eyes widened in shock. "What? Why?" she exclaimed.
"That's no way to speak to your mother, young lady. Where are your manners?" Lady Verona snapped.
Elvira opened her mouth to protest, but Lady Verona raised a hand, silencing her. "Your elders have made a decision, and you must respect it."
"But mother, isn't it for me to decide who I want to marry?" Elvira implored, her voice shaking.
"Save your words, young lady. We have already made our decision, and it is final," Lady Verona said firmly.
Elvira's hands clenched into fists at her sides. "Fine," she spat, standing abruptly. "I hope you're pleased with yourselves."
Without waiting for a response, she stormed out of the room, her heart pounding with anger and despair. Her footsteps echoed down the hallway as she struggled to contain the tears threatening to spill.
Her thoughts raced as she made her way back to her chambers. The weight of expectations and decisions made without her consent pressed heavily on her shoulders. Once inside her room, she slammed the door shut and leaned against it, breathing heavily.
The image of Anson's solemn face lingered in her mind. There was something about him—something that stirred a strange mix of curiosity and defiance within her. But that didn't change the fact that her life was being dictated by others.
Elvira's resolve hardened. If they thought she would simply comply without a fight, they were sorely mistaken.