Chapter 14: Unexpected Dance

Selina offered a polite nod, her lips curling into a faint smile. "The pleasure is mine, my lady. May I have the honor of knowing your name?" From the newly gained memories, Selina notices that this person was a seemingly new addition to Jessica's entourage.

The woman's smile widened, radiant but tinged with a sharpness that suggested she was more than just a pretty face. "I am Lady Evelyn Windsor, from the house of Count Windsor. It's a delight to finally meet you, Lady Amelia. I've heard much about you."

"Good things, I hope," Selina replied lightly, the corners of her eyes crinkling as she maintained her composed demeanor.

Evelyn tilted her head, the glint in her gaze unmistakable. "Indeed. Though seeing you in person, I realize words fail to do justice."

Meanwhile, Beatrice's forced smile tightened, clearly irked by the shift in attention. The other noblewomen murmured among themselves, some watching with amusement as Beatrice fidgeted under the growing pressure.

Beatrice attempts to drag Jessica, who I may remind you is the first princess, away, but Jessica stands firm. Her refined demeanor unwavering as she excused herself with the grace befitting royalty. Once they were out of earshot, Selina caught the sternness in Jessica's expression and internally shook her head. Why does she let Beatrice disrespect her like that?

After mingling briefly with the other girls, the music shifted, its tone becoming more classical and romantic. Selina's senses tingled as a subtle change in mana rippled through the air, followed by the sharp ching of a glass being tapped. She turned toward the sound and saw the king, wine glass in hand, commanding the room's attention.

"Attention, the royal's first dance shall commence!"

The clitter clatter of the crowd stops, all attention pointing towards the stunning man descending the velvet-carpeted stair, his every step exuding confidence and charm. hoping to be the one chosen to be his partner. Selina doesn't pay much attention, surely Noah wouldn't pick her, it's the least he could after she saved his ass. 

Noah looks around, away from Selina's direction, and seems to be really thinking carefully of who he should choose. But abruptly, a gust of wind breaks through the horde and Noah is suddenly kneeling on one knee, holding Selina's hand with the utmost care.

"Lady Amelia, may I have this dance?" 

Selina fought the overwhelming urge to smack him and instead mustered her most passive-aggressive smile. She didn't really have a choice; refusing would only paint a larger target on her back.

"It would be my honor, your highness." 

Inside, Selina is sweating bullets. She hadn't practiced dancing a single time. She's screwed. Well, not exactly, Amelia was the definition of a dignified lady, she probably practiced dancing, right? Selina just has to pray to whatever god that her body can move to the beat before she fucks up.

Selina allowed Noah to lead her to the center of the ballroom, the crowd parting like waves to make room for the royal and his chosen partner. The chandeliers cast a golden glow over the polished marble floor, their reflections shimmering like stars underfoot. She could feel the weight of every gaze in the room, envy, curiosity, and admiration mingling in the air.

The orchestra began to play a sweeping waltz that was both sophisticated and complex. Selina felt Noah's hand lightly press against her waist, his other hand lifting hers in a perfect lead. Her muscles tensed for a moment, but Amelia's muscle memory kicked in. Thank god, she's not screwed… as of now

"You seem awfully tense Amelia." The prince whispers to her.

"Burn in hell." she replied through gritted teeth, though her picture-perfect smile never wavered.

To, Selina's relief, her body responded effortlessly. The steps flowed naturally, Amelia's years of rigorous training shining through. Each turn, spin, and glide felt fluid, as though she had rehearsed this moment countless times.

"Come on, you could've just refused." 

"Are you kidding me? That's practically committing treason."

"You're exaggerating~" Noah's bright voice ticks off Selina as she feels the countless burning gazes of jealousy on her.

"It's either you or some other random ladies." He swirled her around effortlessly, pulling her slightly closer, his grip tight on her waist.

"The only person I feel comfortable with touching is you, my lady." He murmured softly, his lips close to her ear.

"That only goes for one of us that is. I don't exactly like the feeling of being puppeteered by you." Selina scoffs.

"My apologizes."

"Not accepted, your highness."

The dance ends as they both bow to one another, the crowd breaks out in applause. 

"They're made for each other."

"His highness is so handsome."

"Lady Amelia, why not meeee."

The nobles gossip to one another, the ball has officially started, like for real this time. Like clockwork, many go towards center, dancing, laughing, flirting, etc. 

Selina walks towards her original location, only to be stopped by Troye.

"Amelia, I guess even a half-blood like you can grow… Good job I suppose." Troye blurts out in his signature deep, cold voice.

"I appreciate the compliment (I think), your grace."

"Don't refer to me as your grace, people can hear."

"That's literally impos—" She caught herself, sighing. "Ahem. I'll follow your words, brother."

Troye gives one last, surprisingly gentle glance (compared to usual) at Selina before going off to wherever. Selina gorges herself on the food and wine when everyone is distracted. Nom nom. 

Selina heads to the terrace, high-quality wine in hand, and stares at the stars, taking subtle sips. "Ah, this is truly the noble life." She murmurs to herself.

A figure emerges behind her, "Someone's enjoying themselves today."

"What is it this time, your highness?" Selina questions aggressively, clearly not in the mood for his antics after the stunt he pulled.

"What's with the hostility? And please, I told you last time to call me Noah." His voice is bright and cheery, taking amusement in Selina's displeasure.

"Noah, you're dead to me as of now. I didn't plan on being anyone's scapegoat today."

Noah let's out a chuckle

"Amelia, I apologize, truly. I just… don't like the looks others give me. It's always filled with lust and impure feelings, even from men. You and Troye, were one of the very few to show such open hostility towards me. Better looks from others I suppose."

"...I don't really mind all that much truth be told. Just give me a heads up next time, my skills were awfully rusty."

"You did great! My parents were gushing about you. Only a beauty like you could match with my handsomeness." Noah remarks earnestly.

"Put a sock in it." Selina takes another sip from her glass.

"Fine, I won't bother you too much, just… thank you." The prince waves her goodbye as he casually walks away.

Selina watched him go, shaking her head. She took another sip of wine, staring at the stars. Maybe this ball isn't so bad after all.