Chapter 13: The Crimson Rose
Lydia rose from couch and gestured for Eliana to follow her. She had received Sebastian's command to prepare Eliana for the upcoming party.
"Of course," Eliana replied, getting up from her seat. Her demeanor shifted from joy to despondency as she thought about returning to her mundane life in Willowbrook after leaving Ravenwood.
Eliana followed Lydia up the marble stairs, her soft silver hair trailing behind her like molten moonlight. The hems of their dresses rustled against the cool stone, their heels clicking against the polished steps. The grand entrance hall echoed with their footfalls, the sound reverberating through the opulent chambers above. The air smelled of freshly cut roses and burning beeswax candles, a stark contrast to the damp, earthy scent of Willowbrook.
They turned left down a corridor lined with paintings of past dukes and duchesses, their stern gazes following them as they passed. Eliana's heart raced as she took in her surroundings – the intricate tapestries, the gleaming suits of armor, the ornate chandeliers that cast flickering shadows on the walls. Every detail seemed designed to impress, intimidate, and remind one of their place in this world.
They reached a set of double doors at the end of the hall, and Lydia stopped to turn around. "This is it," she said softly, her hazel eyes meeting Eliana's.
Eliana swallowed hard and nodded, feeling a knot form in her stomach. Lydia approached her, placing a warm hand on her shoulder. "I know it's not easy for you," she whispered, "but try to enjoy yourself tonight. You deserve a moment of happiness."
She opened the doors, revealing a large room with a canopy bed fit for a queen, fluffy pillows adorned with tapestries of mythical beasts. The air was heavy with the scent of lavender, and soft music played from a nearby chamber. In the center of the room, an ornate vanity table held an assortment of oils, perfumes, and makeup. Eliana glanced around, taking it all in.
"Go ahead and get undressed," Lydia instructed gently. "Sebastian picked out this dress himself. It's quite stunning."
Eliana's silky silver hair tumbled down as she let go of her braid, the silver strands glimmering in the candlelight. She stepped out of her skirt, revealing her legs that had endured unspeakable hardships. Her face flushed with a mix of embarrassment and excitement, but there was also a sense of quiet determination in her eyes.
With shaking hands, Eliana reached for the laces of her corset, slowly undoing each knot until it fell away, releasing her supple form from its binding embrace. Her breasts rose and fell with each breath, untouched by the cruelty of the world. She turned to face the mirror, marveling at her curves in awe.
Lydia watched every movement with a keen eye, admiring Eliana's resilience and courage. She smiled encouragingly, handing her a soft, red silk robe to cover herself until she was ready. "Now, about the dress..." She picked up a delicate garment made of intricate lace and silk, its deep red hue setting off Eliana's complexion perfectly. "It's called the Crimson Rose. Sebastian chose it specifically for your eyes."
Eliana approached the vanity table, taking slow, deliberate steps on the plush carpet. The soft material of the robe caressed her skin like a lover's touch, and for a moment, she imagined what it would feel like to wear something so luxurious every day. She reached out and let the dress slide over her head, reveling in the sensation of the silk brushing against her skin.
Lydia stood behind her, fastening the laces at the back and pulling the dress into place. "There, now turn around."
Eliana turned slowly, feeling the dress hug her body in all the right places. It was the first time she'd worn anything but plain, practical clothing, and it felt strange but exhilarating. She caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror and gasped – the reflection was stunning. Lydia smiled, taking a brush to her hair.
"You're beautiful, you know that?" She murmured softly, running the brush through Eliana's tresses. "Now, about your makeup..." She dipped a small brush into a pot of black liner, tracing Eliana's lower lash line with precision. The taste of rosewater from the brush filled Eliana's mouth, and she closed her eyes, savoring the moment.
As Lydia applied mascara and blush, Eliana felt her nerves fade and a sense of calm wash over her. The scent of roses mixed with the lavender in the room, creating an intoxicating aroma. A gentle knock on the door interrupted their tranquil silence.
"Come inside," Eliana's gentle voice beckoned Lito as he opened the door and entered, closing it behind him. Sunlight filtered in through the windows, casting a warm glow over the room. Lydia was putting the finishing touches on Eliana's make up, her skilled hands moving with precision and grace.
"I apologize for disturbing you," Lito said, addressing Eliana. "Lord Sebastian is waiting downstairs. Are you ready? "
Eliana smiled, turning to face the mirror in front of her. "Almost done," Lydia replied, her tone soft and reassuring. With a final check in the mirror, Lydia stepped back and allowed Eliana to stand up.
Eliana couldn't help but gasp at her own reflection. The make up enhanced her natural beauty, making her look like a princess. "You look stunning, my lady," Lydia praised from behind her.
Eliana turned to hug Lydia with genuine gratitude. "Thank you for all your help, Lydia. I will never forget it."
With a smile on her face and confidence in her step, Eliana followed Lito out of the room, ready to meet Lord Sebastian. The sun shone brighter outside as she walked down the stairs, feeling like she was glowing from within.
As Eliana took her first step down the staircase, the soft sound of her shoes against the wooden steps echoed through the large entrance hall. She felt like a princess in the luxurious crimson gown made of intricate lace and silk that hugged her elegant figure in all the right places. The rich fabric swished with each movement, adding to the mesmerizing tune of her descent. The tension in her body slowly eased away, and she breathed in deeply, taking in the sweet scent of lavender and jasmine mixed with the delicate fragrance of the roses Lydia had woven into her hair. The air was filled with anticipation.
Sebastian was there, standing tall at the end of the staircase, his long red hair falling in waves around his face as his piercing silver eyes scanned the room. With every step she took, his gaze locked on to hers, their connection growing stronger. His powerful aura seemed to pulse with an intensity she had only seen before in storms or wild beasts. The servants stopped what they were doing to watch her approach, their whispers of awe filling the silence. When she reached the bottom step, she saw him clearly. The enigmatic Duke of Ravenwood, Sebastian Blackwood.
His eyes widened in surprise, and for a moment, he looked lost for words. Eliana felt a wave of warmth wash over her as he took in her entire being, from her shining silver hair to the delicate laces of her gown. She walked forward without breaking eye contact, her heart beating wildly in her chest. As she neared, she saw the slightest uptick at the corner of his lips, as if he approved of her attire. It was clear that he had chosen this dress himself. But why?
Reaching the last step, she paused, her breath catching in her throat. His presence was overwhelming, yet so inviting.
"Are you ready to go?" Sebastian asked as he walked towards her, gently taking her hand in his.
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