Thread: Love at first bite (Forbidden Luxuries and Magician)

It was the same dream, occurring over the past few weeks, whether night or day, if she closed her eyes she always found herself within this dream. In the dream she was running, terrified, but of who or what she never knew. That part of the dream had yet to reveal itself. Barely awake and still languishing within her midday nap, she felt a sort of resignation that she might never know the meaning of it, very much like her own life. Decisions were to be made, and if not by her, most certainly by her parents. She had already spent far too much time enjoying her rosey life thus far, but she was not quite ready to accept the life that was expected of her. Being the privileged daughter of a wealthy trade merchant carried weight that was almost too much to bear, and the expectations were just as much a burden, if not more. Other proper young women were eager to begin their lives as doting wives of wealthy men, and proud mothers of their children. But she was not quite so eager. Just a little more time....just a little more.... The sound of the heavy silk draperies being flung open with deliberate force and the bright afternoon sunshine flooding the sumptuous room with its intense light brought an abrupt end to the afternoon nap. My God Mary. I swear you and my parents would rather see me dead than happy. The lovely young woman covered her face with delicate hands, bemoaning her current situation. Mary, her life-long servant, had doted on her for her entire life, watching her grow into the beauty that she was, and praying that life would treat her well. Get up, the afternoon is passing and you have an engagement this evening, lest you forget. Mary said sternly. How could I possibly forget? Between you and father, my life seems always to be dictated in some fashion or another. The young woman continued to languish in her bed as her servant chose her adornments for the evening. The burgundy one she quipped at the servant, finally bringing herself from the bed. Lena Mary said in a gentler tone. The tone Lena had always found great comfort in. You are twenty three years of age. Your parents and myself only wish the very best for you. You must learn to settle down, and not to be so flighty. You do not want to end up on the ragged edge. Marys gentle blue eyes peered into Lenas emerald eyes for a moment, hoping to appeal to her better side, even if in some way. It worked. Lena smiled warmly at Mary, the women she loved possibly more than her own mother, after all, it was Mary who more or less raised her here in this massive, grand estate. I will know when the time is right. Now lets get me ready. Do you know if Eve has responded? Eve will arrive at the gala separately. She sent her regrets of not traveling with you stating her day has been somewhat busy. Mary said as she began to help Lena ready herself for the evenings formal engagement. Well well, that sly little fox. Shes probably been on a calling with George. Lena said with a sarcastic giggle. She was happy for her friend, but knew the dynamic of their friendship would change dramatically if the pair married. As the setting sun gave way to beauty of the night, the carriage pulled up to the grand estate that was hosting a reception equally as grand. Many had come to attend, for it was no small matter, and to eschew this particular invitation would have been looked upon with utter disdain. One at the very least, had to make a brief appearance. Aristocracy was in no short supply here, and gave them yet another opportunity to show their wealth and status with fabric and jewels that only others could dream of. Lena had to attend in her parents stead, for they were abroad on business, and so the task of making an appearance was given to her. The attendant offered his hand to steady her as she emerged from her carriage. She glanced around at the people gathering around the entrance. She wanted to scoff, but knew she should not. A proper lady would never dream of...Lena!! Youre here! A familiar voice shrieked. It was Eve, her closest friend. The two women embraced and shared small talk as they walked toward the entrance. Upon presenting their invitations, the steward ushered them inside where the grand reception was being held. Breathtakingly gorgeous was an understatement. The music, the formal attire, the decor, the ambient golden glow of crystal chandeliers and sconces, the food, the wines on offer, it was an event of utter extravagance. Now Lena began to enjoy being here. Who wouldnt? Introduction after introduction did begin to bore her, and she was only too happy when Eve made her way back to her, two delicate glasses of wine in her hands. For you, my lady she mocked with a laugh. I find this event to be rather boring Eve said with a sarcastic tiny smile. But I did hear that a certain gentleman who has been presumed dead has shown up. Although Ive yet to meet him. Eve was always one for rumors and scandal, eating up every last detail, and only too happy to keep it alive at the next tea, or even a formal engagement such as this. Lena, on the other hand, hated rumors and scandal, and being the quieter of the two, she held no satisfaction in disrespecting someone in that way. Maybe this said gentleman just doesnt like making public appearances such as these. They do become trying of ones patience at times. Lena said, sipping her crystal goblet of wine. Most here were hell bent on keeping up appearances and tradition. Lena was hell bent on the opposite. She wanted a life of her own, and looking around she noticed how warm the grand room was, how loud the chattering of voices were to top the music, the way the couples danced elegantly while others drank and took dainty bites of foods on offer. This vision took her deep within her thoughts, and she smiled softly, realizing that as beautiful as the evening was, she truly despised gatherings such as these. She was brought back to the present by a mans voice, he was asking for a dance. Oh, no, I am sorry but I must decline at the moment. He gave a broad smile and a slight bow before walking away. Usually Lena loved a dance or two, but tonight she was not in a mood for dance, or to even be present here. She began looking for Eve, who always seemed to disappear at these occasions. Social butterfly. Always. She replaced her crystal goblet with another and sipped the luscious, sweet wine. One could tell this was a good vintage. She mingled with guests as she looked for her friend, her fine silk dress the deep color of the wine she sipped, tightly corseted, pearl choker around her neck, blonde hair swept into an elegant chignon with pearl pins. Her emerald eyes gazed around the crowd for Eve, nowhere to be found. The room was stifling and Lena made her way outside to the veranda to breathe some fresh air. Fortunately, no one was out there, and she breathed a sigh of relief as a cooling breeze was felt along her skin. She gazed up at the stars, shining like diamonds against a black velvet sky. She wished she had been able to accompany her parents on their trip abroad, and it was at times like these she felt the emptiness of her life. Some things in life not even vast wealth could ease. As a child she would send her prayers up to the stars, but they had always been silent, even now.