Chapter 10: Delicate
Ariana walked back, her steps quiet but steady. She opened the large door, and the sound of lively chatter spilled into the hallway. The ballroom was fuller now—people mingling, voices overlapping, laughter echoing softly beneath the graceful strains of violins and piano while her heart heavy. Her eyes scanned the room until they landed on Ava, who waved at her with a bright smile.
No one had to tell Ariana what it truly meant—why she did that. Still, she walked toward them in silence, her head slightly lowered. But she forced it up. She had to. Her father had reminded her earlier: she needed to act confident.
But how would she ever explain to him the disaster she had caused just minutes ago... all because she needed to pee?
And just as the thought crossed her mind, she noticed her father deep in conversation with a Peer. The lady was middle-aged, her hair styled in a sleek bun. She wore a wine-colored dress that matched her dark brown hair, accompanied by wine-red lipstick. Her smile was warm, but the wrinkles on her face couldn’t be fully hidden beneath the makeup.
"Mr. Brentford, your daughter is really beautiful, I must say. She would be a perfect mate for my son," she chuckled softly, then added, "But what can I say? We have to wait until the Moon Goddess decides."
Ava giggled softly, her hand gently covering her mouth just the right way, as their father chuckled in return.
"Very true, Mrs. Lora," he replied, while Ariana stood off to the side, almost invisible as they spoke. It was only then that the lady finally turned to her.
"Oh, your other daughter arrived here as well."
Their father nodded, trying his very best to hide the frown and displeasure flickering in his gaze.
The lady gently extended her hand, and Ariana mirrored the gesture, offering a soft handshake. The woman then spoke.
"I heard about the tragic incident with your husband. It saddens me deeply. I can only imagine how you must be feeling—my condolences. And may I say, you’re absolutely gorgeous. I would’ve mistaken you for the Moon Goddess herself."