Chapter 157: From Adversity

SEAMUS

'Do you know what this is all about?' Aliah asked as she and Dominic joined the group assembled in the main reception room.

Seamus shook his head, and ran a finger round the high collar of his jacket. Why were formal clothes always so uncomfortable?

'No, no one does,' he responded to Aliah. Like you, Amelia asked us all to gather here, dressed for a celebration.'

'I think she's throwing a farewell party,' Liam said. 'I mean she won't be able to come back here for a while.

'Where are your father, and Amelia and Walter then?' Aliah asked Seamus. 'Surely they would want to be here for this?'

'What, are you surprised someone is later than you?' Dominic asked, and earned a glare from the princess.

'It takes time to dress like this,' Aliah gestured to her floor length royal blue gown, which was heavily beaded and clung to her every curve. As Dominic smiled appreciatively, Aliah turned her back on him, focusing her attention on Seamus. 'Do you know where they are?'