Chapter 47: "A Place of Uncertain Peace"
I walked into the bathroom, the towel still wrapped snugly around me. The cool air brushed against my damp skin as I heard footsteps approaching. The maid came closer, her smile gentle and warm.
"I have brought your clothes, my lady. May I help you dress?" she said softly.
I nodded quietly, still caught in a daze. She stepped forward and helped me slip into a greenish dress. The fabric was smooth, and the designs were unlike anything I had seen before—different, unique, and beautiful in their own quiet way.
She led me slowly to the mirror. I sat down as she began to work on my hair, weaving it carefully, placing delicate flower pins that smelled faintly sweet. Her hands were gentle as she styled me, and then she reached for some makeup.
I looked at my reflection and frowned slightly. "I don't think that's necessary..." I murmured, unsure.
"But my lady," she said with a kind smile, "My Master instructed me to make sure you look your best. The makeup will brighten your face." She brushed my hair softly, the pins glinting in the light. "And this dress — it matches your eyes beautifully."
I studied my reflection again. My black hair fell perfectly down my shoulders, framing my face in a way that felt almost magical. A small smile touched my lips. "Thank you."
"You're welcome, my lady," she said, her smile warm and steady.
I stood up, feeling a strange mix of nerves and calm.
"My lady, my lord said you should join them for dinner," Elana said, her voice polite but firm.
I nodded, returning her smile. "Okay, I will."
Curiosity suddenly struck me. "What's your name?" I asked, needing some anchor in this strange place.
"Elana, my lady," she replied simply, her smile unwavering. "I will lead you to the dining room."
I followed her down the hallway, my eyes roaming the walls and windows. This place had a strange energy — hard to describe, like a quiet power humming just beneath the surface. It was beautiful but different.
I thought about how to get back, if I even wanted to. Those people had forced me into a marriage with a man who made me feel like I was losing my mind. Yet here, in this place, a weird peace settled over me. I couldn't put my finger on it.
Elana stopped before a large door, pushing it open. I stepped inside and immediately noticed two men seated at the table, quietly discussing something. Their eyes slowly turned toward me as I entered.
Kaelen's smile was warm and inviting.
Theron's expression stayed cold and unreadable.
Why was he always so cold? I wondered, silently watching him.
Kaelen waved me over. "Oh, my lady, please have a seat."
I gave a small smile and walked to the table, feeling the weight of their gazes on me.
The table was overflowing with dishes — rich stews, roasted meats, fresh fruits, and delicate pastries. The aroma was intoxicating, making my mouth water.
"You look much better, my lady," Kaelen said, his voice smooth and comforting. "I hope Elana has been taking good care of you."
"Of course," I replied, returning his smile. There was something about him — a calmness that made me feel a little less lost.
Theron, meanwhile, was already eating, barely looking up. Watching them, I could tell they were brothers, but their energies were opposite, like fire and ice.
Kaelen nudged Theron lightly. "You're not even going to welcome our guest?"
Theron's cold eyes flicked to Kaelen, annoyed but hiding it well. "You already welcomed her. Now leave me to eat in peace."
Kaelen chuckled. "Alright, grumpy."
I couldn't help but smile to myself. Brothers fighting — nothing new there.
Kaelen turned back to me. "What do you want to eat, my lady? Dig in, or would you like me to ask the chef to prepare something special?"
"Oh no, I'm fine. It all looks amazing," I said, picking up a bite. The juicy flavors exploded in my mouth. I was surprised at how quickly I devoured the food, almost like an animal starving after being trapped.
Kaelen noticed and smiled knowingly. "You seem really hungry, my lady."
He called to a servant, "Bring more of this for her — she seems to love it."
"No, I'm fine," I quickly said, cheeks burning with embarrassment.
"There's no need to be embarrassed," Kaelen reassured me with a gentle smile.
The servant left to fetch more food.
I glanced sideways at Theron, who was still focused on his meal. A small sigh of relief escaped me.
When the servant returned with more food, I turned back to Kaelen. "Thank you."
"You're always welcome, my lady," he replied warmly.
"Do you need more?" he asked with a smile.
"No, I'm good now," I said softly, smiling back.
As I sat there, between these two brothers — one warm and welcoming, the other distant and cold — I realized this strange house, with all its mysteries and odd feelings, was now my world. And somehow, despite everything, I was beginning to find my place in it.