Chapter 38: The ball

The grand ballroom of the Cavendish estate was illuminated by countless chandeliers, their golden glow casting a warm light over the extravagant gathering of nobles. The polished marble floor gleamed underfoot, reflecting the shimmering silks and velvets of the guests' gowns.

The air was thick with the scent of expensive perfumes, mingling with the aroma of fine wine and delicacies served by swift-footed attendants. Laughter and the hum of conversation filled the vast space as lords and ladies exchanged pleasantries, their masks of etiquette firmly in place.

Eleanor arrived at the ball accompanied by her mother, Lady Aveline Hawthorne. As they stepped inside, her mother gently squeezed her hand.

"Keep your head high, Eleanor. Tonight is yet another opportunity to prove your place."