The ball went on. It was lively, it was beautiful. Music filled the air and laughter spread across the grand ballroom. Everyone was dancing, cheering, and enjoying themselves. Everyone except Lydia.
She stood still, Anna by her side. Her emerald dress shimmered under the lights, her jewels sparkled, but inside she felt nothing. Her stomach twisted as if she might be sick. The music rang in her head until it sounded almost like thunder. The laughter of nobles was too loud, too sharp. She wanted to cover her ears. But she had to stay, she had to stand tall, and pretend she was fine. Pretend that nothing in the world touched her. Yet deep inside, she knew she was not fine at all.
