Page 64 of The Fae Girl 1

Only now I had the dress on I had some reservations; it was far too attention seeking for my liking and without wishing to be ungrateful to Mira I had a good mind to change into something paler. Less noticeable.

I fidgeted in front of the mirror trying to make the dress less ‘huggable’ to my frame. But the cut was too tight. My new found curves were on display for every onlooker to gawp at and I was already cringing at the thought.

“You don’t have to wear it.” Mira said behind me making me jump. “It’s beautiful but you’re clearly uncomfortable.”

“I…” I bit my tongue not knowing how to reply.

“I got a second dress made just in case.” Mira said pulling a pale grey-white dress that seemed to shimmer under the light.

“Oh.” I exclaimed.

“Try it on. It’s less clingy too.” Mira said as she helped me get the red monstrosity off.

“You don’t mind?” I asked.

“Not at all. Wear what you’re comfortable in.” Mira said with a smile. “There, you already look more relaxed.”

She spun me around to see in the mirror. It was true, I felt more relaxed. The red dress had a plunging cleavage that made me more than a little nervous. The new dress had a neckline that gave a far more subtle hint of cleavage and it didn’t cling quite so tightly to my hips either.

“This one would be better for dancing in too.” Mira grinned.

“If there’s one thing I’m not going to do it’s dance.” I said.

Mira just laughed shaking her head. “Come on. You can’t be late for your own ball.” She replied pushing me out of the door.

Indi and Nela stepped forward to follow me, both in dresses but no doubt hiding some kind of weaponry somewhere under the fabric.

“Can’t I get one night off from being watched?” I moaned.

“Relax, we’ll disperse as soon as you’re in the ballroom. It’s only to make sure you arrive safely.” Nela said rolling her eyes.

I sighed but knew it was no good. This was pretty much the closest to freedom I would have, would feel in no doubt forever.

Walking into the Great Hall I gasped. Above me five great chandeliers hung glistening and sparkling in the candlelight. Flowers in pedestals adorned every spare bit of wall and a band played music that I didn’t know but also didn’t feel was too unfamiliar.

Ahead I could see couples dancing on what was evidently the dancefloor. And on the far side of the room huge glass doors opened up to an outside balcony where the drinks were.

A few people turned to look at me but mercifully not many people seemed to notice I was here. I hoped the alcohol would keep it that way. Besides I intended to stay only as long as was polite before slipping off and escaping back to my room.

“Let’s get a drink.” Mira said and she could hardly hide the excitement in her voice.

“Have you ever been to a ball before Mira?” I asked curiously.

“Of course not. When would a farm girl ever be invited to a ball?” She laughed.

“Then I hope you have a really good night tonight.” I said meaning it.

“Oh I will.” Mira replied. “And so will you.”

“Hmm maybe after a drink.” I said as we walked out onto the balcony and towards the drinks table. Somehow it felt like everything would be better with a drink. Besides it would give me something to do other than standing awkwardly gawping around and feeling like I didn’t belong.

Mira went to take a glass and jumped slightly as a man also went for it.

He smiled at Mira and she blushed.

As I looked at him I realised who he was. He’d been Prince Fain’s second in command when they’d dragged me to Montefore.

Ridley. That was his name.

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