Chapter 11: May I Have This
"I apologize," he said, his voice calm yet firm, his expression briefly shifting to something unreadable beneath his mask—something no one else seemed to notice.
"Oh dear, it seems she's really shy," her mother laughed heartily, waving off the moment as though it was insignificant.
"Sabrina, dear," her mother called suddenly, her voice cutting through the faint hum of the ballroom.
Lilia blinked, momentarily startled by the call, and then it struck her—where was Sabrina? Her eyes darted around the expansive hall, scanning its grand chandeliers and clusters of well-dressed guests, their masks glittering under the soft golden light. Finally, she spotted her sister.
Sabrina was standing near the far end of the room, speaking to someone. Her soft laughter drifted through the air, delicate yet practiced. A graceful curtsey ended the interaction, and with the elegance of someone who had done this a thousand times, Sabrina glided back toward their family, her expression composed as always.
"I apologize, Mother, Father. I saw an old friend and thought it polite to exchange greetings," Sabrina said smoothly, her voice steady, betraying no hint of fluster. "I hope I didn't inconvenience you."
Mr. John, standing beside them, smiled warmly. "You don't need to worry, my dear. Politeness is never an inconvenience."
"Thank you for understanding, sir," Sabrina replied, dipping her head ever so slightly. "It's truly a pleasure to meet you."
The corners of Mr. John's mouth twitched into a wider smile. "I must say, I already like you, Sabrina."