Controlling Esmeralda (2: NSFW)

Argider leaned back against the velvet settee, crossing her legs with deliberate slowness. Her golden eyes twinkled with mischief as she watched Esmeralda fume from across the room. The noblewoman's perfectly coifed hair bounced as she paced, muttering something about decorum and dignity.

"Oh, do go on, Esme," Argider drawled, twirling a lock of her chestnut hair. "Your sermons about propriety always bring such... joy to my otherwise mundane existence."

Esmeralda stopped mid-step, her emerald gown swishing dramatically. "Do not call me Esme! It is Esmeralda, a name befitting a lady of my stature. And you..." she pointed an accusatory finger, "should learn to behave as the Emperor's fiancée ought to!"

Argider smirked, resting her chin on her palm. "Ought to? My, my, aren't we demanding today? Is this about the gala? Because I distinctly remember you insisting on that waltz. You practically dragged me across the floor."