Chapter 19: Gathering
Vishiea's POV
“Your gown is ready, your grace,” I heard Yana informed me from behind. I looked around and nodded.
Observing her with a black backless dress in hand, I couldn't help but ponder a daring plan. That gown is bound to pique his interest, and I'm eager to witness his reaction.
I instructed Yana to place the dress atop my bed, and she nodded in agreement, promptly following my instructions.
"You may go and get some rest, Yana," I calmly relieved her of her duties. "I believe I can handle things from here. Thank you for your help tonight." She nodded, bowed, and bid farewell.
A sigh escaped my lips as I heard the door close. Glancing at the wall clock, it was eight in the evening. I still had a few minutes to prepare before attending the inaugural Festival gathering.
After applying my makeup and donning my dress, I cast one last contented look in the mirror, a satisfied smile gracing my lips. I was all set to leave. Upon exiting, I ensured my room's door was locked. Holding my pouch, I ventured down the hallway, alone.
While I'm walking in the hallway, I saw Duke Winston... Err... Kian. He's not alone, there’s a beauty beside him. They were talking happily, but they stopped when they saw me.
"Greetings, Lady Anastasia," the duke said, his lips forming a warm smile, while the young lady by his side also offered a gentle smile.
I nodded in response and greeted, "It's a pleasant surprise to find you here, Kian." Pausing for a moment, I turned my attention to the young lady. "And in such charming company," I added.
The girl chuckled at my reply, waving her hand shyly as she spoke. "Oh, please, your grace, don't shower me with too many compliments. It's making me blush," she admitted bashfully.
I found myself quite fond of her. She displayed a genuine and humble demeanor, unlike Rachelle. I mentally shrugged and let out a soft chuckle.
"Kian, she seems like someone worth keeping around. Are you two a couple?" I asked with curiosity. He glanced at me and then turned his gaze toward the lady beside him. I noticed a hint of sadness in her eyes. Could I have been mistaken?
"I wish we were, but we're not," he replied with a touch of regret. "She's Lily, a dear friend of mine."
Lily gave an uneasy laugh and said, "I wish the same, but reality is different. Kian and I aren't a couple. However, we can still be friends, can't we, Kian?"
The duke nodded in agreement, saying, "Indeed, nothing will change. Now, Anastasia, are you attending the gathering alone?" He smoothly shifted the conversation.
"Yes, I'm not quite comfortable with this type of event, so it's best if I go alone. That way, if I'll get bored, I can leave," I explained. The duke nodded in understanding, "I see. Would you like to join us? We're on our way there now," he extended an invitation.
Politely, I declined, shaking my head, "Thank you for the offer, but I'll manage on my own," I replied smoothly, and both of them nodded.
"We understand. We'll see you there, then?" the duke inquired, and I nodded. "Yes."
Lily smiled and said, "It's a pleasure to finally meet you, your grace," as she bowed. I returned the gesture with a nod and replied politely, "The feeling is mutual, Miss Lily." She chuckled, "Please, just call me Lily."
"Very well, Lily. And you can call me Anastasia," I said with a soft laugh. "Anastasia."
"Shall we go now, then?" Kian said, and I nodded in agreement, saying, "Certainly." I observed them bow and begin to depart. Once they were out of sight, I let out a sigh, realizing it was time for me to head in as well.
I was nearing the venue when I paused, spotting someone familiar. Nathan stood in front of the grand door, presumably on guard duty tonight. I couldn't help but wonder why he wasn't participating in the annual gathering as he had in the past.
I shook off the thought, reminding myself it wasn't my concern, and continued walking.
"Welcome, Lady Anastasia," Nathan greeted with a bow, his manners unchanged. "Thank you, Sir Nathan," I replied, meeting his gaze.
There was still a hint of confusion in his eyes, as if he were recalling something, but he chose to set it aside.
"You may enter now; everyone is eagerly awaiting your arrival," he informed me. I simply nodded and quietly thanked him for opening the grand door.
Upon entering, a faint smile graced my lips. It felt good to be back.
An elderly woman approach me, "You're Lady Anastasia, correct?" Her appearance exuded kindness and warmth.
"Yes, I am, Madam," I confirmed, and her smile grew broader.
"I know your mother; she's a dear friend of mine. Kiara is such a kind-hearted woman. My husband and I hold her in high regard. May I know about her current well-being?" she asked with eager curiosity.
"My mother's health isn't very good at the moment, but we're doing everything we can to improve it. Thank you for asking, Madam," I responded honestly, iI saw sadness and pity in her eyes.
"That's truly unfortunate. I'll keep her in my prayers," she said, nodding. It was heartening to see that many people cared for my mother Kiara.
"Anyway, I won't keep you any longer. I'm Luciana, and I'm pleased to finally meet you, Lady Anastasia," she introduced herself. I nodded and offered a slight smile.
"My pleasure to meet you too, Madam," I responded. She smiled once more and lightly tapped my shoulder before taking her leave.
I was just about to explore the venue when the Emcee loudly announced the arrival of the king.
"Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in welcoming our esteemed King, King Darius, and his fiancée, Rachelle!" Everyone turned their attention toward the grand door.
There they stood: Rachelle, with a wide, beaming smile, holding onto the king's arm, and Darius, on the contrary, appeared quite displeased. I couldn't help but wonder why. Perhaps something unpleasant had occurred, and it served him right, I thought.
As a sign of respect, everyone in the room bowed. I hesitated for a moment, but ultimately, I also bowed, considering that they knew me as Anastasia. However, if I was Vishiea, I would never have lowered my head.
He doesn’t deserve my respect. Darius looked around the whole place. He looks like he's looking for something, someone perhaps? His eyes found mine. He never looked away. His annoyed expression suddenly change also. It seems like his mood lit up. He's really weird.