_The Worst Was Yet To Come

After getting into my suite, I changed my clothes into an elegant black suit with a coattail.

I didn't bother putting on a mask even though it was a masquerade party and gave myself one final glance in the mirror before walking out of the suite.

When I got downstairs, I scanned my gaze around, realizing that I hadn't seen Phoebe since I got back.

Maybe she was in her suite...

Just then, I spotted her... Phoebe.

My mouth went wide in surprise at how beautiful she was.

She wore a black gown that sparkled under the lights of the room, had her hair cascading behind her like a waterfall, and was discussing with a noblewoman.

Her smile and her laughter, even from this distance, were infectious; even though it was clear to me that she was forcing it.

Eventually, the noblewoman left Phoebe's side, and she sighed, fiddling with her fingers while looking around.