The ballroom shimmered with candlelight, the strains of the orchestra floating through the air like whispers of silk. Lola and Emperor Xander glided across the marble floor in perfect harmony, their movements drawing the attention of the entire ton.
As they danced, others followed. Lords and ladies took to the floor, some with practiced ease, others with hesitant delight. On the sidelines, ambitious mothers whispered to their daughters, scheming. A few bold young ladies cast longing glances at eligible Lords, while others simply gossiped with fans fluttering like the wings of nervous birds. Meanwhile, a cluster of unmarried Lords leaned in close, exchanging wagers, laughter and perhaps scouting their prey for the night.
"You truly know how to create wonders," Xander murmured, his lips brushing just above Lola's ear as they turned to the rhythm.
She smiled, a flicker of mischief in her eyes. "I find delight in wonders, Your Majesty."
"What would I do without you?" he asked, his tone warm, teasing.
"Nothing, I presume," she replied breezily.
"You're quite arrogant," he said, though a chuckle followed.
"I learn from the best," she returned, her eyes dancing as brightly as the chandeliers overhead.
Not far from them, Lady Alethea stood stiffly at the edge of the dance floor, her hands clasped before her. Then, unexpectedly, Lord Agrival approached.
"Lady Alethea," he began, his voice lowered, "may I have this dance?"
She looked up at him, the corners of her mouth barely hiding her hurt. "I thought I embarrassed you."
He glanced around as though checking for prying eyes, then leaned in slightly. "Please, just one dance. We'll talk properly when we return home, just you and me. I promise to make it right."
Alethea studied him for a moment, uncertain. But something in his eyes, a vulnerability perhaps long buried made her nod softly. She placed her hand in his and allowed him to lead her into the centre of the room.
Lola noticed them and offered a small, knowing smile. The sight of the couple joining the dance floor stirred something within her. Perhaps, just perhaps, there was hope for them yet.
And just as the next song began, the grand doors swung open. In swept Lady Sophia, her arm entwined with Lord Caspian's. Their entrance was effortlessly elegant, causing several heads to turn.
"Seems we've arrived fashionably late," Caspian said with a smirk.
Sophia returned his smile, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "No one ever cares about the time when the company is charming."
She stopped and faced him, curtsying with playful grace. "May I have this dance, my Lord?"
His answering grin was boyish and bright. "Oh my, why wouldn't I?"
The pair glided onto the dance floor, laughter light between them, joining the sea of spinning couples as music swelled to meet them