Preparing for the Evening Ball
Jacob’s offer to show me the extravagant chambers was met with awe as he took my hand, guiding me with regal elegance. The parlor, with its grand fireplace and shelves brimming with books, exuded luxury and refinement. The bedroom was even more spacious than my own at the manor. Seemed to belong to a world of indulgence far beyond what I was accustomed to.
We entered. Jacob caught my brief hesitation, his sharp eyes shifting from surprise to understanding.
"Is something wrong, Katherine?"
"No, Your Highness, it is just... breathtaking."
I tried to keep my voice steady, but unease gnawed at the edges of my mind.
"This room is fit for royalty," I said quietly, the disparity between my humble origins and these lavish surroundings weighing on me.
Jacob's response was immediate, his tone resolute.
"Katherine, you are the jewel of my heart, and that is what matters most.”
“I have been captivated by you for some time, and I wish for you to reign by my side as queen."
Before I could fully absorb the weight of his words, my maid, Macy, entered.
“Your Majesty,” she greeted Jacob with a graceful curtsy.
“Rise,” he commanded gently, acknowledging her presence before turning back to me.
With a tender kiss on my hand, he bid me farewell, leaving Macy and me to prepare for the evening ahead. Macy’s presence was calming. Her hands moved with precision as we discussed the fabrics and shades that would complement my features.
"My lady, which color will you wear tonight?"
"A rich, majestic purple, I think," I replied, imagining the regal hue.
“An excellent choice, my lady,” Macy nodded approvingly.
“As always, you will look stunning.”
I chuckled softly.
"Macy, must you be so formal?”
“It is just me.”
“Please, call me Katherine."
“As you wish, Katherine,” she replied, her smile warm yet dutiful.
After meticulously preparing everything, Macy asked, “Shall I draw you a bath?”
“That would be lovely.”
Moments later, Macy returned.
“Miss Katherine, your bath is ready.”
I slipped into the fragrant waters, feeling the tension melt away, leaving only a sense of calm. Macy’s gentle care made the experience even more indulgent. Once my bath was finished, she moved on to brushing my hair with her usual grace.
“Shall I do your makeup as well, madam?” she asked.
I looked at the neatly arranged products before me, impressed by their artistry. Though I knew my way around makeup, Macy's expertise promised something extraordinary.
“Please, go ahead, Macy,” I said, eager to see the final look.
A sudden knock on the door interrupted us.
“Macy, could you see who it is?”
When she opened the door, the Queen herself stood there. Macy curtsied deeply, addressing her with reverence. I followed suit, but the Queen waved off the formalities with a smile.
“No need for such ceremony,” she said warmly.
“I have brought a gift for you, my dear.”
She handed me a beautifully adorned box, its ornate design hinting at something special within. My breath caught as I opened it to reveal a stunning diamond necklace and matching earrings, shimmering like stars.
“These are magnificent.”
“They belonged to my mother,” the Queen explained softly.
“I wore them to my first ball with the King.”
“I wish for you to wear them tonight.”
“Thank you, Your Majesty.”
“What color are you wearing tonight?”
“Lavender purple.”
“A perfect choice.”
“You will look radiant.”
“Now, I must leave and finish preparing myself, as the ball approaches.”
Shortly after the Queen’s departure, an attendant arrived with a gown that took my breath away. The process of dressing took over an hour, the corset tightened, and my hair was arranged meticulously until I was ready. I stood there, taking in my reflection. The gown shimmered with each movement, and the diamonds around my neck and ears glowed brilliantly. I felt regal—like I truly belonged in this world of royalty. Jacob entered the room, his eyes widening as they took me in.
“You are a vision of loveliness, Katherine.”
“Thank you, Your Highness.”
“No one will surpass your radiance tonight,” he said, his affection clear.
He offered me his arm, which I accepted. Together, we made our way to the grand ballroom, careful with each step as my gown’s long train trailed behind. While we walked, Jacob explained the evening’s protocol, his voice low and reassuring. When we neared the ballroom’s entrance, he leaned in.
“You will sit beside me on the throne, to my right,” he explained.
“A throne?”
I repeated, doubt creeping into my voice.
“Yes.”
“As my honored quest it is your rightful place,” he said firmly.
“Jacob, I do not feel like I belong...”
“In my presence, you belong,” he said, his conviction unwavering.
We continued walking, and he added, “Once we are introduced, my parents will join us on the balcony.”
“You know the rest.”
“Are you ready?”
“As ready as I will ever be.”
The ballroom loomed ahead, and with each step, a knot of anxiety tightened in my stomach.