45I don't own any detail of VA or BL!
A/N:
Hey, guys! Thank you so much for all your love and support that you have given me for this story; it truly means the world to me! I simply love, hearing all your theories on the characters, plot lines, and future scenes.
I've noticed that a lot of people liked seeing the older Paul oppose to the ten-year-old adorable Paul that we know and love, which is a positive! I was curious to see everyone's reaction to an older Paul.
Also, I see everyone liked Romitri and how I brought Dimitri into the story! Lucky! And don't worry more Romitri moments will occur soon!
Please don't stop sending in suggestions! I'm glad you guys liked the lyrics! Should I try to add more? Do you guys have any songs you would like to see in the story?
And I can't message some of you back to thank you for your reviews because you guys don't have an account. However, I love hearing your reviews just as much as people who have an account on here. So please don't be shy!
Sorry for the late update, I've recently started College over the last two weeks. I'm in five days a week now, so my updating will not improve anytime soon, unfortunately. However, I promise I will try to balance my college work alongside Fanfic! I'm still writing the next part of this chapter. But, I have kept you all waiting long enough for an update, so this is better than nothing, right? :D
P.s. Someone asked me if Dimitri knows that Rose is 19. The answer is, not yet! ;) I have an idea in mind of how he finds out. What do you think it is!? And lastly, the first part of this chapter is a continuation of the last chapter, so it's still the 12th July 2014 and moves onto 13th.
Lee, Carly: 23.
Viktoria: 24.
Ambrose, Angeline: 28.
Dimitri, Ivan, Lissa, Christian, Mason, Eddie, Mia, ect.: 30.
Tasha, Keith: 34.
Rose, Sydney: 19
Paul, Jill, Reed, Natalie, Micah, Zoe: 17.
Now on with the story!
Rose Pov:
"You, Roza, "Dimitri said utterly mesmerized, staring deeply into my dark brown eyes."Are truly an incredible dancer; it was like you were born to dance. The passion is evident across your face. And the way your body moved perfectly in sync with the rhythm of the beat. I've never known anyone to dance with such—such cadence."
I chuckled, turning my body towards him in the scarlet red coloured leather booth, giving him my soul's attention. Dimitri's left arm lazily draped around the back of the booth, his fingers gingerly touching my left shoulder, allowing him to turn his body to face me. I couldn't help but noticed the ever so slight rise of his chest, breathing in and out, slowly catching his breath after our dance marathon.
Dimitri and I had just danced for what felt like hours on and endless cycle—not that it bothered me. In fact, I thoroughly enjoyed watching the Russian God trying to dance gracefully yet skilfully dance to the rhythm of the intense beat; especially at his gigantic height. However, towards the end our dancing, he managed to move in sync with my free body movements.
"Wow, Comrade, "I said, with amusement laced in my voice."Considering your native tongue is Russian. You certainly have a large range of vocabulary of the English language, which is probably better than mine."
Dimitri chuckled lightly. He slid closer towards me in the booth, so our knees were now touching, awakening a butterfly effect feeling that was now brewing within my stomach. Our eyes instantly snapped to each other, locking us in a trance to one another.
"My stepfather, Henry Cromwell, was born and raised in England. He taught me the language since he's an English Literature Professor, "Dimitri said and added, his voice thick with emotion; you could almost cut it with a knife."But, I have a feeling that you can express yourself in other ways, Roza."
Dimitri's husky accent and flirtation words sent waves of shivers up and down my spine, all the way to my core. His words replayed over and over again in my mind like a CD on repeat. I had just entered a foreign and unknown territory of emotion; one I was not equipped to enter.
Must be the side effect of the alcohol, I thought. Alcohol brings courage and boldness out in you.
Or maybe your reaction to a hot guy, openly flirting with you and treating you like you're a jewel. Unlike Lee, who treated you like dirt on the bottom of his shoe.Said an inner voice in the back of my mind.
Suddenly, I found myself and Dimitri slowly leaning into each other, almost as if there's a magnetic force drawing us into one another. Our lips hungrily connected to each others with a sudden need. I instantly felt jolts of electricity shoot throughout my entire nervous system. I felt him wrap his arms around my waist while I wrapped my mine around his neck.
Intensifying our kiss. The electric currents of shock waves exploded inside, sparking off like wildfire. Fire pulsed through my veins, heating me up, encouraging me to let down my emotional walls of protection. Dimitri pulled me closer to his body; one his hands moved to run through my hair while I played with the hair at the nape of his neck. I felt like I was cloud nine.
All of a sudden, someone standing in front of us cleared their throat audibly; Dimitri growled and pulled me closer to his body, his lips remaining on my lips. Just my luck. I thought. Painfully looking up, detaching my lips from Dimitri's, my dark eyes locked gazes with Angeline's blue eyes. I could have sworn that I saw shock with a large dash of happiness shining as brightly as the sun within in her eyes, for a moment before quickly composing herself.
"Angeline?"Dimitri questioned in disbelief, making my gaze shift to him. I noticed he suddenly straightening his posture, his facial expression turning serious and guarded."What are you doing here? Ivan told me that he asked you and the others to come out with us tonight. But, I thought you said that you, Eddie, and Mason were all working tonight for your new charge?"
Shifting my gaze onto Angeline, her posture stiffened momentarily before straightening like a soldier marching into battle.
They know each other?
"It was misunderstanding, "Angeline said curtly before adding, with a softer tone towards me."Rose. Mason and Eddie have already dropped everyone at home while I looked for you; I didn't think you would be sure of the way back home without guidance from someone."
Wow is that late already? I remember earlier, Natalie informing me that everyone would head home at around midnight, so they can get some rest for the ball tomorrow evening at the Ivashkov estate.
"Thanks, Angeline, "I said and stood up. Angeline nodded."Can I see your phone for a second, Comrade?"
Dimitri nodded, fishing through his jeans pocket, pulling out his phone and handed it to me curiously. Unlocking the phone, I typed my number—my private mobile number—into his contacts; this wasn't a wise or logical decision in reality. However, for some unknown reason, I felt like I could trust Dimitri, and I had an uncontrollable desire to find more about him. He seemed different from other guys; he intrigues me dearly.
I handed him his phone back and winked. Winked, I winked at him! Standing up, Dimitri walked over and stood in front of me. I couldn't help but notice how his beautiful dark brown eyes darted between my eyes and lips.
"It was nice meeting you tonight, Comrade, "I said. Dimitri brushed a strand of my hair behind my ear while staring into my eyes."I hope to see you around soon. Very soon."
Out of the corner of my left eye, I noticed Angeline stood near us, watching us with a curious eye. Dimitri's hand lingered by the side of my face momentarily before cupping it.
"Oh, I have a feeling will be seeing a lot more of each other in the future, Roza, "Dimitri said, sounding more like a firm statement."Don't you fret about that."
Angeline cleared her throat again and placed her left hand on my shoulder to gain my full attention. Dimitri's hand that was cupping my face dropped to his side.
"Right, "I said while looking at Angeline, who's reminding me of the time. I looked up into Dimitri's eyes."Goodnight, Comrade."
Dimitri grinned at me."Goodnight, Roza. Сладкие мечты."
Angeline and I turned to walk away. However, I turn my head to the side to sneak a peak at the Russian God. Dimitri stood there, paralysed, with a grand smile cross his luscious lips, almost as if he's found his Holy Grail: me.
"Dimitri, "I said and nodded at him.
"Roza, "Dimitri said and nodded at me.
Suddenly, a male, with short neatly cropped platinum blonde hair, with wide grey-blue eyes—almost a topaz blue, a pale cream skin tone complexion, tall, probably around six-foot-four, a muscular build. And a strong jawline, broad shoulders, appeared through the crowd, moving to stand next to Dimitri, with a girl virtually attached to his hip, I recognized as being Mia from the cafe. That must be Ivan, I thought. Hook, Line, Sinker is right. Mia has clearly fallen under his spell. Poor girl.
While they started talking, I followed Angeline through the throng of gravitational bodies, keeping a close distance to her, not wanting to lose her as she's my ride home. However, I recognized a familiar face walking through the crowd, scanning the area.
"Paul!"I called. His head snapped towards the direction of my voice. Paul smiled, a look of relief washed over his face. Angeline stopped walking to look over at Paul as well.
"Oh hey, Roza!"Paul called as he moved through the crowd, stopping once he stood in front of us. He looked a little out of breath. Paul's hair appeared messier than earlier too.
"Paul?"Angeline asked, with confusion laced in her voice."What are you doing still here? I thought you got a lift home from Eddie or Mason."
"Are the others here with you?"I asked, adding on to Angeline's question.
Paul shook his head.
"No, the others went home with Eddie and Mase earlier on, "Paul said."And I was..."He shook his head."I'll explain when we get in the car."
"Fair enough, "Angeline muttered.
And continue towards the back exit. Paul and I followed behind Angeline. We followed her as she walked across the street towards the large black SUV. Angeline opened the passenger door for me. I nodded at her, silently thanking her and sat down in the seat. Paul got in the back of the car behind me. Angeline walked over to the other side, jumping into the driver's seat.
"So, are you going to tell me why you never went home before with Eddie or Mason?"Angeline inquired, sounding like a mother scolding her child for going out without permission.
I turned my body to the side to look at Paul in back. Paul looked exhausted. He slouched down in his seat and rested his head on the window.
"Two words, Angeline, "Paul said exasperatedly."Marcella Badica."
Angeline gave him a look of understanding and started up the engine. Who's Marcella Badica?I thought. I couldn't help but feel guilty for not finding Paul again since he looked like he had a rough night with the infamous, Marcella. However, I could understand getting harassed and struggling to get away from that type of person. I, myself, have had a few unexpected, unwanted, and troublesome fan encounters in the past.
I gave Paul a sympathetic smile.
"When you get home, try to eat something light on the stomach and have a warm drink—my friends, Ambrose, and Sydney always suggested hot chocolate. Take some calms and then try to get some sleep tonight, "I said."That has settled me after a bad fan encounter in the past."
Paul looked up at me and smiled.
"Thanks for the suggestion. I'll defiantly try that, "Paul said and added."Aphrodite."
I chuckled. His mood lightened up, so I decided to use his nickname for him too.
"No, problem. Studmuffin."I amused.
Angeline chuckled at our nicknames for each other. She then pulled outside an enormous Victorian manner house. Paul's home, I presumed.
"Here you go, "Angeline said, turning around in her seat."See you tomorrow night, Paul. I'll be working with Eddie and Mase, so we'll pick you up unless your uncle can take you. Please tell your mother and babushka I say, hi, though."
Paul nodded and opened the door.
"Of course, Ang, "Paul said, opening the car door."Night, Aphrodite. See you tomorrow."
I smiled warmly at him.
"Night, Studmuffin."
Chapter Three:
"She, as no other ever could, reached every corner of his heart. His joy, and his salvation." J.D. Robb.
Rose Pov:
"This is it!"Natalie exclaimed, linking our arms together as we walked through the shop's doorway."Welcome to the legendary designer that is Vasilisa Ozera-Dragomir shop. Well, this is just the entrance and reception area."
This morning, I was woken up by overly excited and energetic Natalie, barging into my room at the crack of dawn and began jumping up and down on my bed like a trampoline. Eventually, I managed to get myself downstairs to the kitchen—well, more like Natalie dragged me against my will—a tad overly dramatic. However, it was the crack of dawn; I looked like a Ghoul and Medusa had a child! Sydney's folk tales, which she love reading and studying now rubbing off on me. She'd often shared the thrilling legends of the mythological worlds to me over the years. Now she has the chance to study with the best at Lehigh University, in late August. I couldn't be prouder.
Alberta—the life saver that she is—had breakfast and a cup coffee ready for me when Natalie dragged over to the kitchen chair beside hers. The food smelled glorious, and it tasted as glorious as it smelled. Man, how I love her cooking! Alberta then informed Natalie and I that she had arranged an appoint at Vasilisa's shop for eleven o'clock. Victor kind enough to offer Natalie and I lift into town, before going to work for a few hours. As the sweetheart that he is. I can see why Natalie idolizes her father and why Alberta fell for him, already. He truly is incredible partner and father.
"Are you sure that she will be able to get me a dress and a mask ready for tonight?"I inquired as we walked over to the empty reception desk."I mean my stylist, Meredith, can get me a full outfit ready in an hour. But, that's because it was in storage already waiting for me."
Natalie nodded. We stopped walking once we stood in front of the pale lilac desk.
"Trust me, Rose, "Natalie said, pulling her black leather backpack down, so it landed down at her feet."Vasilisa can work with a little detail and still make exquisite clothes. She's going to be known worldwide very soon; she should be since she deserves it. I've always loved her designs from a young age."
Suddenly, a short—around five-foot-one—redheaded female, with a petite frame, wearing a short flattering emerald green pencil dress and jet black strappy heels appeared from the back room.
"Hello, and welcome to Queen's and Princesses fashion line shop. My names, Serena, "Serena said kindly."How can I help you both?"
"Hi, Serena, "Natalie said while leaning forwards on the desk."My name is Natalie Dashkov. And we have an appointment with Vasilisa at eleven o'clock for a dress fitting and making; we're a little early, so we can wait a few more minutes if she's busy?"
Serena sat down at her desk, typing—Natalie's name, I presumed—into the computer. Looking up from the computer screen, Serena smiled at us both.
"Ah, yes. I see your appointment now, Miss Dashkov. I'll send an email to Mrs. Ozera-Dragmir right now, letting her know that you have arrived, "Serena said."Please go through to the changing room area suite, and she'll be with you both shortly."
"Thank you, Serena, "Natalie said.
I smiled."Yes, thank you."
"Follow me, Rose, "Natalie said as she linked her arms with mine again, leading through to the back room behind Serena. The dressing room must have been the size of Alberta's and Victor's living room, kitchen, and basement altogether.
The walls were a rich dark chocolate coloured wood, with four full-length crystal-crusted mirrors on left and right side of the room, pictures of stunning models wearing flawless gowns. Several dark chocolate arches on the walls, leading to theme decades of clothing and jewellery. Glass shelves with white and gold crystal crusting on the outside, holding limited edition shoes.
The ceiling is a three layer circular dome shape the shade of misty grey, with seven tier grand a molten golden chandelier in the centre and bright white spotlights surrounding the outside of the dome shape ceiling. The floor consisted of a plush cream carpet.
Towards the back of the room there an onyx black coloured desk, filled with dozens of art portfolio's, pens, sketches, a crystal beaded lamp and a leather desk chair. Several manikins of exquisite looking dresses alongside artist touches a designer such Vasilisa needs.
The middle of the room layout more like a living room, with four leather couches, plush circular shaped pillows and two grey and white brocade armchairs. A mirror glass coffee table in the middle of the couches, with a crystal vase, filled with exotic flowers. While the front of the spacious room, there are several changing rooms.
Wow.
"It's beautiful, isn't it?"Natalie said.
Beautiful doesn't begin to describe it, I thought.
I nodded.
"Natalie! Rose!"Jill called as she walked out of one the changing rooms. She looked flawless like a supermodel. Jill wore an emerald green coloured dress. The top proportion of the dress made out of a V-neck lace, with golden rhinestones around the waist instead of a belt; the bottom of the dress flowed elegantly to the floor.
Natalie and I stared speechless at Jill momentarily.
"Does it look that bad?"Jill inquired timidly while shyly staring at the floor, occasionally daring to look up and meet our gaze.
"No, of course not Jellybeans!"Natalie exclaimed. She hurried over to embrace Jill."You look like a supermodel! That dress fits you like a glove! Please tell me this is the dress you're going to wear tonight?"
"Yes, this is my dress for the ball, "Jill said."I have the matching mask at home already. Micah bought it for me."
I couldn't help but noticed Jill's jade green eyes look over at my brown ones with admiration. My opinion does mean a lot to her.Natalie and Jill pulled back. I walked over, grinning brightly at Jill and gestured to her exquisite dress.
"You look beautiful Jill, "I said."Green suits you so well. It brings out the colour in your eyes."
Jill blushed.
"You think so?"Jill asked shyly.
I nodded and smiled at her.
"Yes, I have to agree with Natalie, "I said."You look like a supermodel from Paris fashion week."
Jill blushed again.
"Ah, Jill. The dress fits you perfectly like a glove by the looks of it!"A voice said suddenly from behind me."How do you feel in the dress? Do you need me to alter anything of the dress for you before tonight?"
"Yes, thank you so much, Lissa, "Jill said, with a large grin plastered across her face. She then began twirling around and around in a few circles while holding the ends of her dress."It's perfect. It fits comfortably. I just hope I can do it justice tonight at the ball."
I turned around at the same time Natalie did. Lissa, I presumed is a nickname for Vasilisa, from what I understand her saying to Jill, stood at back room entrance doorway. She looked angelic, beautiful and captivating. She looked around her early thirties, maybe even late twenties. Lissa is very tall, probably five-foot-eleven and has a slender frame–fashion designer's such as herself she would love to use her as a model for their line. She has a clear pale cream skinned complexion, with bright jade green eyes, and long flowing platinum blonde hair.
Lissa walked over towards us, stopping in front of us and smiled. Her smile so grand it lit up the entire room and make any girl envious no matter how secure they are about their appearance.
"Of course, you can do it justice, Jill. And that's perfect. You can take it home now then for tonight, "Lissa said."And good luck at your swimming meet today, I know you'll knock them dead like always. Don't forget to show me any medals you win!—Christian is taking his little niece there too—well, she isn't little as she's a year younger than you. Lia's competing in the sidestroke event; it's her first time. Could give you perhaps her any tips before her meet?"
"Yeah, I'll keep an eye out for her and Christian then, "Jill said."And I won't get any medals today; it's the start of swimming meet season today. It's more like a knockout rounds. Over the next week, I'll be competing none stop. The end of August will be finals where all the medals will be handed out. This year, the finals are in Moscow, and I can't wait!"
Wow, Jill certainly knows her stuff. Her passion for swimming evident in her tone of voice and the way she expresses and explains it. From the sounds of it—the medals she's won—she must be an incredible swimmer. I would love to see her compete in her swimming meet, one day.
"Oh, good luck then!"Lissa said."Not that you'll need it, Jill, like always."
"You have a swim meet today?"Natalie and I asked, butting into the conversation.
Lissa's and Jill's eyes snapped up to meet our gazes.
Jill nodded, blushing slightly again. She's such kind soul.
"Yes, "Jill said."Oh, shoot! I'd better hurry up and get changed then! Micah will be outside waiting for me as he's taking me to my swim meet; I'm meeting my parents, and my coach, Mikhail Tanner, and his wife, Sonya there. Jeez, I'm running late again!"
"Good luck!"Natalie and I called as she dashed back into the changing rooms. We heard a faint "Thanks!" from the other side before turning our attention towards Lissa.
"Is my dress and mask already?"Natalie exclaimed eagerly.
Lissa grinned."I presume you're eager to collect and see your dress and mask for tonight then."
"Yes, Lissa!"Natalie exclaimed. She then looked over at me, winking and added."And this, Rose. She's Alberta's great niece; she's staying with us for a while. Do you think you could find her something to wear for tonight? She only arrived here late on Thursday, you see, Liss."
Alberta, Jill, Natalie and Victor seem to trust Lissa. So I then took off my sunglasses and placed inside my handbag. Lissa flashed me a grand smile and held out her hand to me.
"It's nice to meet you, Rose, "Lissa said kindly."I'm Vasilisa, but everyone calls me Lissa. And I think I have the perfect outfit for you tonight in my storage space. Only someone with your complexion could pull it off. Would you like to the dress, shoes, and mask?"
I nodded.
"Okay, "Lissa said."Bare with me momentarily while I'll go in back. I'll bring it out here to you both so you can have a proper look at the outfit."
"Thank you, "I said before Lissa disappeared back through the doorway again. Just then, Jill rushed out from behind the changing room, with the dress she wore earlier in a bag in her left hand, and all her belongings in her right.
"See you, guys!"Jill called as she hurried across the room to the doorway.
"See you later, Jill!"Natalie and I called just before Jill exiting the door. I looked over at Natalie to find her grinning at me.
"Told you, she would have you outfit ready tonight, Rose, "Natalie said.
However, then just Lissa reappeared with a dress and mask in her hands. Natalie and I gasped at the beauty presented in front of us. Sydney would be staring speechlessly at the outfit admiring the detail while Ambrose would be grinning like a mad man, demanding I wear it now or more importantly if he could wear it.
"That's it, "Natalie said mesmerized."That's the vintage dress you were born to wear, Rose!"
I couldn't do anything but nod in agreement with Natalie.
Lissa smirked."Wait until you see the heels."
After Lissa showed Natalie and I the exquisite dress, mask, and shoes and contained our excitement, Natalie collected her dress, and we slowly strolled our way home–Victor was still working. I thoroughly enjoyed the freedom to roam the streets without taking the chance of the paparazzi bombarding me for pictures and to sell a false story about my life.
A specific story that has followed me around like an unwanted shadow since turning eighteen is the marriage claim. According to the world, Lee and I are getting married, or that we secretly wedded in a private ceremony in Barbados, with friends as witnesses. Even with my incredible publicity team, Ambrose, and Sydney, nothing will stop the paparazzi or anonymous person selling juice to the devil—the magazine companies.
Arriving back at the manor, Alberta and Natalie quickly whisked me away to Alberta's and Victor's room, which was laid out, with multiple beauty stations located around the room purposely for tonight's events. Reminding me of the good old days before I found the fame, when I used to stay over at Syd's house since my mother lacked the maternal connection with me.
Carly—Syd's older sister, Deborah—Syd's mum, herself, Zoe—Syd's younger sister, and I spent many nights bonding while Jared—Syd's father, worked away from home. I spent the majority of the year staying over at the Sage's; I always felt more like a Sage than a Hathaway. Deborah always treated me like one of her own and still does to this day. I consider her more like a mother than my own. They were like the family I longed to have as my own.
Another thought that crossed my mind was of Ambrose and his reaction to the beauty stations. Ambrose would have instantly had a heart attack and died and then came back to life to enjoy the luxurious pampering and then died again. He could never resist a free beauty pampering session, especially whenever glitter and sequins involved; he's the king of glitter and sequins.
From the interaction between Alberta and Natalie, it's obvious Natalie considered her like a mother to her. I've never asked Natalie where her mother is; it seemed like it was a sensitive subject to approach. It was beautiful to see, though; Alberta always loved and wanted kids, however, she was unable to conceive and when Drew died she gave up hope of ever having a child of her own.
I remember as a child seeing my great-aunt crying and overhearing her, speaking to Deborah Sage about her fertility issues. As a young child I never quite understood what she was saying. However, the older I became, the realization hit home. And it explained why she dedicated to spoiling her sibling's offspring.
Two hours into getting ready, Victor arrived home and joined us upstairs in the bedroom. I felt our connection growing as a family—well, technically we are family, not all by blood but we are a family now. I always dreamed of being a part of a loving family, with a younger annoying and funny sibling, a caring mother, a protective father, and even a family pet.
I learned very early on not all dreams became a reality. However, the dreams that sometimes don't turn into a reality are mostly blessings in disguise. You don't get to choose your early life path you must walk, but do get to choose your the next pathway. And I think Baia will play a crucial part in the next chapter of my life.
There's something about this town, Baia. I don't know if it's the fresh crispy breeze. I don't know if it's the new atmosphere. I don't know if it's the easy-going people of Baia. Or if it's the new found freedom from my hectic life back in the City of Angels. This town appeared to be the definition of perfection from the outside. However, even when perfection stares you back in the face, the slightest hairline fracture can shatter the perfection glass, protecting the town. And with my stormy track record of trouble following me everywhere I go, I can almost see the tensions building around the perfection glass of protection.
Sydney's word from the airport haunted my mind again, Knowledge comes, but wisdom lingers.
Five hours passed by; five of the most, bonding, enjoyable, and lyrical I've known to date. My creative juices flowing a tsunami through my mind. Ambrose said that's one of my most impeccable qualities; finding inspiration from anything. I stored all my idea's in a safe volt for keeping, mentally locking up it with a key for later.
Natalie finished first. She looked marvellous in her twenties style, dusty rose pink colour, evening, knee length gown. The base made out of a silk netting, upon sequins, glass silver tube beads and large paillettes at the hem. The bodice's design swoops up in a flattering curves way. The dress very much channels the nineteen-twenties era. And her matching colour heels. Natalie's jet black colour hair now jelled back neatly in a nineteen-twenties hairdo, with a pear head chain in her hair. She wore a half face dusty rose pink colour mask.
Natalie then left the room, with Victor following closely behind her to pick up Jill and Micah for tonight. Leaving me and Alberta alone to finish getting ready. If I remember correctly from last night, Paul is getting a lift either from his uncle or Angeline, Eddie, and Mason.
"You're all done, my dear, "Alberta said, resting her hands on my bare almond coloured skin underneath my lightly curled thick dark hair, with light ombre tips. She rested her chin lightly on the top of my head. I looked up through the French ivory coloured vanity dressing mirror table, into Alberta's dark eyes, in Alberta and Victor's bedroom."You truly have grown up to be an incredibly beautiful woman. I couldn't be prouder to call you my great-niece."
I smiled warmly at Alberta.
"Thank you, it means a lot to me, Bertie, "I said and added."Well, I am your great-niece, after all. I do have your, immense beauty, dark eyes, and youthful genes. Not surprising looking you."
Alberta looked simply stunning in her inked-tingle silk, wrapped at the front, with a high V-neckline, gathered short sleeves, tailored bodice, with a full skirt, a black velvet sash, floor-grazing gown. She wore a grand fourteen carrot diamond necklace and a pair of flawless black heels. She fitted tonight's theme perfectly—any decade before the sixties, A Flashback From The Past.
Alberta smiled without showing teeth, brushing a strand of my hair out my eyes."I would say you resemble your father more than our side of the family. You have a lot of his features and personality traits. I could never mistake you for anyone besides Ibrahim's child."
My eyes widened. I spun around in the white leather plush chair. I took a deep breathe before daring to meet her gaze.
"You knew or know my father?"I inquired. I only know bits and bobs regarding my biological father from Janine. However, whether it's all true or not, I have no idea, I'm unlikely to find out the answers I seek.
Alberta smiled warmly at me, nodding.
"Yes, "Alberta said."I've known your father since he was sixteen years old."I opened my mouth to speak, but she beat me to it."I'll tell you about your father another time. Just not tonight—it's a long story. One you're not ready to hear all about, my dear."
I wanted to push for answers. However, something about Alberta's tone sent warning signals to my brain. I settled for a simple nod, accepting–for now–her answer; hence the 'now' part.
"I'll check if Victor's back yet with Micah and Jill yet, "Alberta said, walking over to her bedroom doorway. However, Alberta halted midway to the door, looking over at her white ivory French dresser."Oh, I almost forgot to give you this, my dear."
Alberta walked over to the dresser, picking up a white envelope and walked back over towards me, handing me the envelope. I placed the envelope on my lap.
"Here, Victor noticed this arrived this morning for you, "Alberta said."I don't know who it's from—I can open it first if you like, my dear?"
I shook my head, looking down at the envelope."No, no, no, it's fine, Bertie. It's probably from Syd or Ambrose. They've probably given up with technology and resorting back to the old fashion ways of contacting people."
Alberta chuckled.
"Okay, my dear, "Alberta said."After your done reading the letter, just meet us in the foyer. I presume they'll be back by now."
Alberta exited her bedroom. I turned my attention the envelope, which I picked up from my lap. I noticed that front of the envelope addressed to me in calligraphy handing, Miss Rose. I opened the envelope and pulled out an invitation and a note.
The invitation is the colour of midnight blue, with a fully blossomed red rose on the right side of the page and a satin grey mask in the centre. Roza, printed across the bottom of the page in large letters. I turned over the invitation, to find a silver fox and ebony black coloured mask image beside writing.
You're cordially invited to attend the 7th Annual Sandovsky's Syndrome Foundation Ball–black tie.
Masquerade Ball
Venue: Ivashkov Family Estate.
Date: July 13th, 730pm until late.
Celebrity Guest: Ludmila Ionesco and Nathaniel Darian.
Hosts: Tatiana Ivashkov, Nathan Ivashkov, and Daniella Ivashkov.
CEO Founders: Ellis Badica, Marie Conta, Victor Dashkov, Ava Drozdov, Eric Dragomir, Tatiana Ivashkov, Marcus Lazar, Esmond Ozera, Lee Szelsky, Reece Tarus, Priscilla Voda, and Ekaterina Zeklos.
Donations: a minimum of £175.
If you're married: wear a diamond head chain or diamond cufflinks.
If you're in a relationship: wear a half eye face mask, matching your partners.
If you're single: wear a half face mask to add to your mystery.
Making miracles become a reality in more ways than one.
This the invitation for the masquerade ball I'm attending with Alberta, Jill, Micah, Natalie, and Victor tonight. I then moved my attention to the note, opening it up.
Roza,
Meet me under the moonlight in the Ivashkov greenhouse at midnight–I'll be waiting for you. Having your phone number is nothing compared to seeing your face once again. I look forward to our reunion; I told you, we would see more of one another.
Comrade.
Dimitri, I thought. A grand smile appeared on my face. However, a thought immediately crossed my mind: how did find my address here in Baia? Maybe through Angeline? Does that mean he spoke about me to people? Or maybe through his work line. He did say, he works within an influential business. Said an inner voice in the back of my head.
I slipped the note and invitation back in the envelope before standing up and looking in the mirror.
I looked different. Normally, Meredith–my stylist–would style me for the more seductive, boundary pushing, and risk-taking look. However, now I looked more elegant and sexy. My evening gown, a silver stain colour, with a shade of pale lavender silk charmeuse. A sleeveless, cowl neckline, bias-cut, open back, with jewelled elements on the shoulders straps, and a slit up the right-hand side of my leg all the way up to my mid-thigh. And on my feet, a pair of silver strappy heels.
Taking a few deep breathes in and out, I brushed back a strand of hair out of my eyes and nodded at myself in the mirror. I picked up my onyx black and silver satin lace Venetian mask, placing it over my eyes. From my cheeks downwards and my eyebrows upwards can be seen.
Breathe, Rose.
"Rose, my dear!"Alberta called."Are you ready? Victor and Natalie are back with Micah and Jill!"
"Coming!"I called back.
A sneak peak into my next update!
"I've got to go."I decided avoidance was the best tactic for now. And with the time ticking until midnight and my reunion with Dimitri; I did not want to miss my chance to see him again.
"Are you sure?"Adrian inquired, soundly mildly disappointed. Mostly he seemed as cocky and amused as before. I noticed there was something different Adrian Ivashkov that seemed to intrigue me dearly. Not in a romantic way. More like one troubled soul to another.
"Yeah, I have somewhere to be, and I'm still recovering from my jet lag, "I said, I couldn't control the growl in my tone when I mentioned cigarettes."Besides, your cigarettes are giving me a headache."
"I suppose that's fair."Adrian drew in on the cigarette and let out a cloud of smoke."You know. Some women think they make me look sexy, and extra appealing."
I chuckled humourless.
"I think you smoke so you have something to do while thinking up your next witty line, "I said. The old Rose Hathaway, popping back up again.
Adrian choked on the smoke, caught between inhaling and laughing.
"Rosemarie Hathaway, I can't wait to see you again, "Adrian said."If you're this charming while suffering from jet lag and annoyances from the two St Basil's boys and this gorgeous while covered in glitter, sparkle, and sweat, you must be devastating at peak."
"It's just Rose, "I corrected, fighting back a snide comment."And if you mean, you shouldn't get on my bad side: then yes."
Adrian chuckled. I pushed myself off the bricked wall out of the outside of the Ivashkov garden wall.
"Goodnight, Adrian,"I said and walked further into the gardens.
"See you soon, little singer."I faintly heard him call from behind me.
What did you guys think? I'm curious to know if there is a character you would like to see me write a shortish point of view as an outtake. Perhaps Lee? Sydney? Ambrose? Paul? P.s I will include a Dimitri point of view once we reach 50 reviews, so until then don't ask for him as it's special! Very special! XD :D
Сладкие мечты—sweet dreams.