Perhaps the night was not off to the most auspicious of starts - after all, dancing with Harrison Davis was something that Aurelia never imagined herself ever doing. It was unfathomable, and now, Aure can see why; clearly getting close to that man, even in proximity, was begging for trouble - as her mother often warned. Trouble seemed to emanate from every corner of the Davis household, and associating with them was generally considered ill-advised.
On the bright side, at least Aurelia had a moment to speak with Orpheus. It provided her with a much-needed respite from the energy of the ball, especially considering the headache that had lingered from the earlier nuisance. While her memory might have faltered in some aspects, one person she would and could never forget was Orpheus—a man who had an uncanny knack for making her feel at ease, regardless of the circumstances. She missed him dearly, and for some inexplicable reason, her heart longed for his presence. This was precisely why she had chosen to bend a few rules and step outside to speak with him, even if it meant a short conversation filled with mostly her talking. In any case, she was looking forward to their upcoming dance, and the anticipation of their conversation buoyed her spirits.
Either way, in general, avoiding trouble was Aurelia’s priority this evening, for herself and, more importantly, for her younger sister. She felt a strong responsibility to set a good example for her.
Speaking of her sister, Lydia had mentioned something about Atlas earlier in the day. Aurelia couldn’t quite fathom the reason behind her sister’s suggestion, but if Lydia believed that Atlas might be a suitable match for her, perhaps it was worth exploring. After all, her sister’s judgment was usually astute… well… usually, that was, before the disaster of this morning. Aure still couldn’t understand what had transpired in Lydia’s thoughts, leading her to present herself to the queen in the most unladylike of manners.
As Aurelia delicately sipped her water, her eyes wandered the lavish ballroom in search of Atlas to check if he was available. However, it appeared that trouble had a knack for finding her, akin to a bloodhound tracing a scent, and it was determined to cross her path. This time, it took form of the audacious Ilyas Keats. Perfect… just… perfect.
Aurelia could not fathom what mysterious influence was drawing all the rogues in her direction this evening. Whatever it was, however, she’d prefer it to stop. Was it too much to ask for one evening of simplicity? A single night where, even if her memory was a bit hazy, she could bask in the tranquility of the moment? Unfortunately, such desires appeared to be an elusive dream.
It was his gentle yet strangely familiar touch upon her wrist that initially captured her attention, a sensation she couldn’t quite place or comprehend. Nevertheless, she dismissed it, focusing instead on the words that slipped past his lips.
“Shrimpy?” A foul nickname he had given to her as a child, like a venomous thorn that had embedded itself in her memory, continuing to prick at her even now. His relentless bullying tactics throughout her childhood had fanned the flames of her aversion to Lord Keats, kindling a hatred that burned fiercely within her.
Not to mention, after those words spilled from his lips, he laughed. At her? Knowing him, it was a likely assumption. She was ready to demand that the man release her, but before she could utter a word, he changed the topic; his hand still gently holding her own. However, Aurelia had yet to pull away.
“What are you doing here? I thought… you aren’t dea—clearly— here you are, small as ever but here…”
Was that sincerity in his tone? It was a quality Aurelia had never associated with Lord Keats. She had often doubted he even comprehended the concept of sincerity. But then, what was that expression in his eyes? There was something there—a flicker of recognition, a hint of connection that they had never shared before. And as if on cue, her mind began to throb gently, similar to the ticking of a clock.
Lovely… just… lovely.
““Did you actually shrink?”
Shaking her head slightly, a bitter smile tugged at the corners of Aurelia’s lips as she stared into his eyes, withdrawing her hand from his grip.
“Lord Keats, whatever game you’re playing, save it for another unsuspecting victim. I’ve long outgrown your childish antics, and I won’t be ensnared in your tricks. Don’t you think you’re too old for such juvenile behavior? Pestering me, of all people? Is that what your friend was attempting earlier with his accost of me on the dance floor? Is this your idea of entertainment today? Well, I’ll have you know, I’m not in the mood to play.” Her tone carried a mix of exasperation and defiance, her words laced with the weight of past grievances.
“I will say this only once. Tell your friends, and make sure you yourself know, I will not be played. Leave. Me. Alone.” Her voice carried a firm determination, and she held his gaze, making it clear that her words were not to be taken lightly.
@Madilfill - Bully
Mentioned:
@DandelionKate - BESTIIEEE
@sunflowerjm - Atlas sooo slightly
@novella - SIIIISSTER
@Kristi - Ick