ARIELLE
Something is wrong.
The more I danced, the hotter I felt, my tight corset compressing my ribcage so severely that it became almost impossible to breathe normally.
This is strange. The last time I tried it on, everything had been fine. Did that other maid tie it too tightly? I felt as if I might suffocate if I didn't do something soon.
"I'm sorry," I said, gently pushing Raiden away as I took a step back. "I need a moment… to catch my breath."
"Is everything okay?" His voice carried a hint of concern. I shook my head and started walking away. "It's fine. Don't worry about me."
The moment I was out of sight, my fingers moved on their own. Without thinking, I snapped the drapery off my shoulders, and a wave of relief rushed through me as the air conditioner's cool flow touched my exposed chest.
"Undressing already?"
I flinched at the sound of a familiar voice. Serena approached, her long, elegant arms crossed over her chest. "You don't look well. Is it the corset?"
