Checks And Dresses

 Chapter 93 Checks and Dresses

*Hidi*

"So, this is the infamous gown." 

Hidi moved toward the mannequin. Her fingers grazed over the soft fabric, smooth and silky like butter. Cut in the traditional tunic style of Nochten, emeralds, and rubies adorned the fabric in a mandala pattern. Each gem was sewn together with golden thread. 

Her gaze shifted to one of the largest sapphires near the collar. Its sleek surface gleamed, reflecting her image with such clarity that she was captivated by her own appearance for a moment before surveying the rest of the room.

They were in a study. Hidi observed the usual indicators. A sturdy desk stood by the high-arched window, letting in afternoon sunlight. A thick circular rug softened the sound of her heels. Two camel-back sofas faced a mahogany coffee table in the room's center. On the far side, a long table with wooden chairs was in front of a built-in bookshelf filled with various books on history, culture, and war–nothing unusual there.

However, as her gaze caught sight of the foreign script on the spines of some books, her brow arched. These were untranslated copies, written in languages the scribes had yet to adapt for the masses. Hidi was only vaguely familiar with them, having never had the chance to read them herself. Yet here they sat, as if commonplace as if anyone could pick one up.

Perhaps, for Ana, they were.  Hidi wouldn't put it past the petite vampire to translate them for fun, hunched over books for hours, taking notes just because she could.

It only reinforced how her personality clashed with her doll-like appearance. Even after her growth spurt, Hidi still found her adorably compact—though, at her own towering height, most people seemed small. But Ana, with her heart-shaped face, tapered chin, button nose, and full lips, was practically made to be captivating.

She was destined to be absolutely adorable, and that charm would only grow with age. However, rather than being merely a pretty face without substance, as she'd imagined, Ana had the wit to match.

All the more interesting. Hidi grinned to herself, absently fingering the gem. It stayed cool despite the fire's warmth.

She laughed softly.

"I didn't think you had such rich tastes, Ana?" She glanced over her shoulder at the vampire lounging on the sofa, raising an eyebrow as if to punctuate a joke. Yet, instead of laughter, an unsettling silence fell. Ana's posture stiffened.

"Rich?" she questioned. "What do you mean by…?" But her words trailed off as she let out a small cry and pressed her hand to her eyes. "Oh, Hidi, you didn't hear about–"

"That you dropped serious coin on your coronation dress?" Hidi prompted. "Ja, I'm afraid." 

"Oh…"Ana's fingers tensed against the fabric of her gown, the knuckles paling slightly. Her gaze flickered away—not just a casual glance, but a deliberate retreat. A shallow breath, the kind meant to steady oneself, slipped past her lips before she schooled her expression back into place.

Hidi, her curiosity piqued by Ana's reaction, left the mannequin to approach her. "What's the matter?" she inquired. 

She paused at her desk, eyes noticing the first golden frame. It was a portrait of a male vampire. His features looked vaguely like Ana's. Perhaps some great-great-grandfather? His red eyes were hard, and his face cold. 

What a cruel-looking man; she instantly disliked him. He must have been important—why else would it exist? Vampires were fickle about portraits; only the significant defied that silly taboo theirs about the dead.

But if he was someone great–

No, she'd still have tucked the portrait in some closet to 'forget' about the rest of her reign if it were up to her. Like many other things, she didn't like. Tucked away, deep in her castle, to be forgotten.

However, the second and more miniature portrait was a completely different story. 

Hidi's eyes widened slightly at the sight of his smile.

Since when did Ana get a miniature? Hidi didn't have one. That wasn't fair. Shouldn't she have one? She was the one engaged to him, after all.

I want one, too, Hidi pouted, bending down to see Nicoli's painted grin. His unruly hair had been neatly combed and parted, and the artist had perfectly captured the mischievous spark in his eyes.

Look how cute he is.

Hidi touched the small frame, something curling in her chest—a flicker of jealousy.

I must ask Belinda to commission one for me.

She lingered her finger on the frame, already imagining a grand painting hanging in her chambers. Not some tiny keepsake—no, hers would be magnificent. That way, she could look at it whenever she wished.

She brightened at the thought before turning back to Ana, who remained deep in thought. A frown etched across her lips as her brows pressed in.

The dark and weary expression further contrasted her otherwise cherub-like features.

But why? Hidi felt the question compel her.

"Why the long face, my little Ana?" Hidi playfully teased as she strolled down to take her seat on the opposite sofa. A cup of hot coffee was on its saucer, growing cold, but She had no urge. She moved to take up a cookie instead. 

"Is the dress not to your liking?" She bit down three times before the cookie disappeared. 

Creaking the sofa under her weight, she moved for another."Is it not what you envisioned?"

"Envisioned?" Ana almost seemed repulsed by the idea, but just as quickly, her shoulders dropped. "No, it's; I can't believe the word has spread." 

She clasped her hands behind her neck beneath her shawl. Her expression tightened as if struggling with the news. Pressing her lips together for a moment, she seemed to be battling something internal. Doubt briefly shadowed her vermilion eyes as she glanced at the carpet before raising her gaze.

"How far do you think the news has spread?" She asked in a measured glance.

Hidi could only afford a sympathetic smile. 

"If I told you it didn't, would that make you happy?" Hidi went for another cookie.

"No." 

"Then pretty fair." She tossed it in and swallowed. It seemed she was the only one eating them. Ana had yet to sip her coffee. And her cup of blood was untouched and thickening.

Perhaps that's why she's so tiny. Hidi assumed with a flick of her brow at the browning glass. She didn't seem to eat much. Or maybe it was because she was upset. Hidi could only guess before glancing back at the mannequin.

"Your taste is garish." 

Ana sat up at that. "It's not garish, it-" She puffed out her cheeks, biting her lips. A wave of heat flushed her cheeks as if she were flustered before she exhaled. "It's my aunt's design, not mine." 

"You didn't design this… creation?" Hidi sat back, wearing a bemused smile. "Are you sure?"

The vampire froze at that remark before revealing her fangs. 

"I would never waste time on that—I have more pressing matters than sewing dresses." Ana scoffed, rattling the golden chains on her head. She rose, glaring at the dress, but her expression quickly dulled as she fell back into resignation.

"But I suppose no one will care what I think, just like my cousin said." Ana looked to the floor. "They'd rather believe the rumors first."

"Indeed. Rumors are a nasty addition to authority. But I'm surprised you're taking it so hard, Ana." Hidi remarked. 

"What does it matter what strangers will say? You are to be officially Empress in a few days. You'll be the most powerful woman in the empire."

She can find out who started the rumor and make an example of them. Hidi thought. It's what she did. 

Ana shook her head.

"In title, yes. But that's all it will be. I told you I need more support." Ana confessed, taking up the edge of her shawl to twist lightly. Her eyes grew distant with thought. 

"And such rumors will not help gain me more favor." She puffed out a sigh. "But it is my fault. I should have asked how much things were adding up to."

"Your fault?" Hidi sat up. "How is it your fault? A queen never has to consider such things. That's for others to fret about." She never had to ask how much anything cost. She simply pointed at something, said she wanted it, and it was taken care of. Money never had to concern her.

"Who said you should be the one responsible?" She reached for her cup of coffee. The comforting aroma still hit her nose, but it was almost room temperature on her tongue. 

She watched Ana twist her shawl momentarily, her eyes becoming distant again. Her face tightened as if caught between clear logic and something deeper. 

Once again, Hidi found it strange. 

"Ana, who was it that said–" But she saw the girl wave her hand.

"It doesn't matter who is responsible or not. If rumors are spreading, it's already harming my image. I need to address it somehow." Then she sat back down, biting her lower lip for a moment.

"I suppose I could try to sell it."

"Sell it?" Hidi leaned in. Her eyes glanced back at the dress, then back to find Ana nod. "Now that's an idea." One she would never have thought of. Selling the gown would solve things, wouldn't it? At least in terms of money. As for her reputation…

She gaged the vampire anew a moment. Not only was she adorable as a button and booksmart. She was a touch clever.

Hidi couldn't help but grin wider at that.

"Then, how about I buy it?"

Ana's jaw dropped as she sat upright. The thought hit her with such force that she blinked for a moment before she could finally speak again.

"You?"

Hidi shrugged, moving to sip more coffee.

"Sure, I could recycle the gems." She nodded to the dress, eyes flickering over the gems. Recycling the jewels would be the easiest thing- there were so many. It could make three necklaces.

Hidi looked over the enormous ruby in the center of the bodice. What a lovely broach that would make. She'd give it to Belinda.

How funny that would be. Hidi held in a mischievous smile. Belinda would never know that it came from none other than the very girl she disliked so profoundly. 

Very fun.

"Oh, that's- Hidi," Ana swallowed; her face seemed torn again."No, Hidi, I wouldn't think to ask. You already said you'll give me support as it is. To then sell you the dress–"

Hidi only chuckled. "We are friends, Ana. Of course, I'll help you. I'll even pay full price."

"Full price?" Ana's eyes widened and almost popped out. "Hidi, that's too-"

But she was already waving her off, her eyes falling on the only maid in the room. She remembered her—the haughty one from Dawny. Was she still here? 

Hidi couldn't help but sharpen her grin. 

"You!" She snapped her fingers. "How much was it again?" 

Naska bristled. "I- I don't-" Naska flicked her eyes from Ana to the dress and back, clearly unprepared to be put on the spot. "I don't know." 

"Then what are you good for?" Hidi scuffed and turned to Ana. "Honestly, why do you still have this one around? She is awful."

"Awful!?" Naska raised her head to show her fangs slip out. "Excuse me? What did you say?"

"And the attitude she has is appalling." Hidi cut over and kept her eyes on Ana as she waved her hand to shoo her off. " Go away. I don't like your face."

"My-" Naska gasped before standing straight up. Her fangs fully came out as her eyes glared down at Hidi. 

 Ana interrupted, clearly ready for the rebut. She cut it off before building up steam."Naska, go to the kitchen and fetch us more cookies." 

She nodded to the plate on the table. 

The maid scuffed, pushing back her thick red hair and shooting Hidi one last sharp glance. "Gladly." She charged over to grab the plate and pivoted on her heel toward the door.

"And some hot chocolate for Bruno." Ana made a point to the small boy. 

"Hot Chocolate?" Naska perked up. It seemed to calm her down somewhat, and she became softer.

"I- yeah." with that, Naska left the room. 

Hidi couldn't help but be surprised.

"Are you feeding your servants?" That was not usual.

Ana moved to grab her coffee.

"Bruno worked hard today, didn't you?" She turned and signaled for a small boy to come closer. His rust-colored hair shifted as he quietly approached without making a sound. His burgundy eyes lifted in a weary but cautious glance to see her.

"Yes, Your Empress." Bruno went but continued to stare. Hidi was used to the staring. Most found giants unique. But his stare was–unusual. It was instead a cold way for a child. Almost self-aware.

"He's quite young." She commented, at last, looking over the five-year-old.

Ana ruffled his hair. 

"But he learns quickly." Ana tried to make the boy giggle. His bright, burgundy eyes looked up at her warmly. 

The sight felt too intimate for Hidi.

It was almost like a mother with her child. It unnerved her.

"You…he isn't yours, is he?" 

"How- no," Ana laughed. "Hidi, that's ridiculous."

"No, you're right." Hidi had to admit. "The age would be wrong. And he doesn't look like you." His hair was entirely red. 

"Bruno is Naska's son," Ana shared with a smile. 

"Naska? You mean that maid?" Hidi noted back to the door. "You have her bring her son, too?" 

"I didn't want to separate them." 

Ana offered Bruno a small cake to nibble on. His face brightened as the sugar hit his tongue. 

"So I decided Bruno will be my footman."

"Is that right?"

Hidi reeled back at the strangely tender gesture. Her stomach churned. 

It was just peculiar, though. It's one thing to be intimate with herself or even Nicoli; they were nobility, all rulers. 

But this was a servant; no, this was a servant's son. Hidi felt profoundly unsettled by it. There was no reason for her to be so gentle with a - 

Unless–, 

"And the Father?" Hidi went with a careful eye on the boy."Where is he?" 

Or should I say, who? Hidi waited for the answer. 

Ana pulled back her smile slightly. "That's something I still haven't figured out." She moved to smooth his hair down after ruffling it.

"But Bruno looks so much like his mother," she said, patting the boy's head and bringing another smile to his face. He seemed to enjoy her affection, which again unsettled Hidi.

"He does."She could see the familiar features, yet he wasn't an exact copy. She realized it when he grinned.

 I've seen that smile before—somewhere recently. But who could it be? Her spine tensed as the pieces clicked together.

Of course. 

Her lips curled, a slow, satisfied smile spreading across her face. My, my, Lord Mykhol. You've been busy. 

She now regarded the boy with renewed interest, amusement glinting in her gaze. How delicious. What an unexpected twist.

Leaning back against the sofa, she propped her chin in her hand, barely restraining the laugh that threatened to spill out.

"Here, I thought Dawny would be the most tolerant." She purred. 

"Tolerant? About what?" Ana blinked, obviously in the dark, but this only made her laugh again. 

She doesn't know, then. She felt herself glow at the revelation. It was even more remarkable that she couldn't see it. Sure, the boy was young, but as he got older, his features would indeed develop. 

Then, it would be apparent to everyone who his father truly is. But she still felt a tug in her chest for Ana. It was unfair for them to deceive her.

She was not fond of that. 

Hidi intensified her gaze at Bruno, giving him a cold, hard stare. It was as if the boy could sense her thoughts, for he quickly got up. 

"Bruno?" Ana called curiously as the boy silently turned to slip out where his mother had gone. "Oh, I guess he wants to help Naska."

"Sure he does." Hidi only chuckled before uncrossing her legs. "Speaking of which, where is that cousin of yours? Lord Mykhol?"

"Cousin?" Ana chirped up, forgetting Bruno. "He's setting up the court."

"Ah, court?" Hidi lifted her brows, eager. "How wonderful. I'll come along." This way, she could observe just how severe the situation was. Based on the condition of the staff and the palace, it was clear that things were quite–

Hidi set her cup down.

"You don't mind, do you?"

"I, no, but-" Ana made a little flinch. Her face darkened a moment.

She sighed and lowered her shoulders. 

"I'm unsure what to prepare you for."

"Prepare me?" Hidi couldn't help but smirk at the amusing comment. "What exactly is your court like?"