PRESENT◇ CHAPTER 6: THE BALL

Gideon Gael, the resolute head of the Count Gael family, dedicated his entire existence to the daunting task of restoring the family's once-prominent legacy, now in tatters.

During his childhood, life within the household had been relatively stable, marked by the family's long-standing history and influence in the region. The Gaels were not incredibly wealthy, but their historical importance afforded them a degree of respect and influence among their peers.

His late father, a wretched man, had spiraled into disgrace. Gareth Gael's ill-fated business ventures had sent their finances into freefall. Fuelled by the biting whispers and scorn of those around him, he succumbed to a life of excess—drowning his sorrows in wine and the arms of countless women.

Their mother, feeling increasingly isolated and frustrated, grew distant from her husband. She eventually succumbed to temptation and eloped with a young Piper, absconding with as many family valuables as she could carry, leaving behind a hollow shell of a marriage. This betrayal shattered whatever semblance of family cohesion remained. The devastating betrayal, shattered whatever remained of their honor too.

When the truth of her betrayal struck, Gareth's spirit crumbled. Ashamed and broken, he imprisoned himself in the study, unable to face the world outside.

It was Gideon who first ventured into that dark room on a fateful day, the weight of responsibility heavy upon his shoulders. Lord Gareth had been in solitude for three long nights, and young Genevieve was restless, yearning for her father's embrace.

With a comforting resolve, Gideon prepared a tray of tea to coax him out. The once-lovely teaset, a haunting reminder of their lost mother, lay shattered that morning when they discovered the horrific truth—Lord Gareth had taken his life, leaving behind nothing but a shameful letter filled with excuses and bitter curses directed at his wayward wife.

In his wake, Gareth had passed down a grim legacy: a noble title, a decaying mansion echoing with memories, and a mountain of insurmountable debt. The relatives who once held the family in esteem had vanished, and from the shadows emerged the shocking revelation of a half-brother and half-sister, all linked to the enigmatic Lady Tremaine, mother of these unexpected intruders.

As the new Count of Gael, Gideon felt the weight of the world pressing down on him. Year after year, astronomical taxes threatened to swallow him whole, while the debts continued to swell. Yet, the thought of abandoning the title for the sake of his sisters was unthinkable—especially since Gracelyn still dreamed of marrying a prince.

With unyielding resolve, Gideon immersed himself in a relentless quest to save his family's name. Friends became distant, but Gideon pressed on, starting a winery where his sister Gloria worked alongside him, perfecting the wine and keeping meticulous accounts. Together, they chipped away at the looming debts while Gabriella silently supported her brother with earnings from her art, nurturing their youngest sister, Genevieve, in the shadows of their fading grandeur.

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On the night of the grand ball, Gideon, Gloria, and Genevieve anxiously awaited the transformation of their sisters. Genevieve babbled excitedly about her extraordinary day—she had encountered a rare seven-colored horn unicorn! It spoke to her, proclaiming her the fairest of them all, igniting an infectious spark of wonder.

"...I swear to you! It was about this big!" Genevieve gesticulated animatedly, her eyes wide with excitement.

"Really?" Gloria asked, her voice dripping with weary skepticism.

"You can't be serious," Gideon chimed in, feigning disbelief.

"Yes, I am!" Genevieve insisted, her pride bubbling over. "And—"

Before another word could escape her lips, Gideon stood abruptly, his heart racing. "Oh, they're here!"

Their breaths hitched as the long-anticipated pair descended the stairs in a swirl of elegance.

"Who are you? And what have you done with my sister?"

Gideon's teasing words hung in the air, a knowing smile creeping onto his face, as he took in the dazzling transformation of Gracelyn and Gabriella. The night promised to be filled with magic, and the Gael family's destiny was ready to be rewritten.

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The Gael family carriage, an exquisite vehicle adorned with intricate carvings and gilded accents, descended gently from the sky, its wings shimmering in the twilight. It landed gracefully in front of the Duke's opulent mansion, which loomed grand and inviting against the dusky sky.

"I can barely breathe, let alone converse in this corset," Gabriella exclaimed, her voice tinged with frustration as she adjusted the constricting garment that hugged her figure.

Gracelyn, her sister, barely registered Gabriella's complaint.

Her gaze was fixated on an unseen point in the distance, her expression one of rapt concentration. She straightened her back, regimenting her posture as if preparing to address an audience.

Gabriella could never fathom how Gracelyn maintained her composure during such events. The sheer poise radiating from her sister set her apart, a regal presence that commanded attention and awe. Yet, beneath that elegance lay an eccentric spirit.

Just a few moments later, Gracelyn murmured to herself, her eyes sparkling with ambition.

"I'm the most elegant and the most eligible lady here today. The queen will certainly notice me. I'm destined to become the crown princess," she declared, her voice a blend of confidence and fervor.

The Gael sisters had endured this self-affirmation countless times. If Genevieve, their witty friend, had been present, she would have playfully dubbed Gracelyn "Delulu," short for delusional.

Gracelyn turned her gaze toward Gabriella then, managing a subtle nod that conveyed her enthusiasm. "Suck it in for just four hours. Keep your back straight. It's showtime," she instructed, her tone shifted to that of a commanding director.

As the carriage rolled to a halt, it drew the attention of a gathering crowd. Eyes lit up with curiosity and excitement as they recognized the familiar Gael coach—the spectacle of the evening. Whispers buzzed among the guests, lingering questions and anticipations about who would make an appearance this time.

Many had given up hope of seeing Gideon Gael at these lavish gatherings. Once a regular fixture, his absence had transformed him into a dark, enigmatic figure—a man cloaked in allure and mystery. His story of resilience after a significant setback had earned him a reputation among the kingdom's nobility, envied by lords and admired by young women alike.

When the carriage doors finally opened, the first glimpse of the sisters stirred gasps from the onlookers.

A delicate, exquisitely styled foot emerged first, followed by Gabriella, whose radiant presence ignited intrigue. As she stepped onto the cobblestones, she felt the weight of countless gazes upon her, each glance prickling her skin. Some eyes gleamed with admiration, others were laced with envy or cold judgment.

The crowd murmured, a wave of conversation washing over the initial gasp. Whispers concerning her daring dress—boldly black and off-shoulder—filled the air. It was daring, to say the least, accentuating her slender waist and leaving men captivated and hungry for more.

Gracelyn followed, stepping out with an ethereal grace that seemed to defy the very ground she walked upon.

The sisters stood side by side, a striking contrast: one an embodiment of temptation, the other an angelic figure untouched by worldly desires.

If Gabriella was likened to a seductive demon, enchanting and perplexing those around her, Gracelyn was likened to a pure dove, her innocence radiating warmth and charm.

Their dresses were masterpieces, exquisite creations that left a lasting impression. Gabriella's gown was a bold black, sleeveless with an audaciously low V-back that showcased her flawless silhouette, leaving an air of intrigue.

In contrast, Gracelyn's gown was a vision of purity; a pristine white with elegantly full sleeves, the collar intricately embroidered with motifs of branches and leaves, the lace ruffling at the hem enhancing its delicate beauty.

The noble ladies crowded near, consumed by curiosity about the master seamstress responsible for such extraordinary attire.

They exchanged whispers, unable to uncover any tidbit of information, their intrigue only fueled by the knowledge that these dresses likely cost a fortune, enticing envy and admiration in equal measure.