ECHOES OF DESTINY

BLYTHE [ 1657]

I took my place at the vanity, and Sophias gaze met mine through the mirror. I've done a really good job tonight. She remarked, referring to my makeup. You always do! I replied, offering a smile in return. She beamed with satisfaction. So, miss, what shall we do with your beautiful hair? Gabriel approached me, his hands gliding through my hair effortlessly. With practiced ease, he fashioned a braid. What about this? he suggested, laying it over the dress.

No! Sophia interjected. It needs to be more elegant and unique. She needs to shine tonight.

Sophias' words lingered in the air, prompting Gabriel to step back, his brow furrowed in thought. With a nod of understanding, he set to work once more, his hands moving with purpose as he unraveled the braid and began to weave a new design.

As Gabriel worked his magic, Sophia and I exchanged a knowing glance. There was an unspoken understanding between us, a shared vision of the beauty we sought to create.

Minutes stretched into hours as Gabriel painstakingly crafted each twist and turn of my hair, his skill and artistry evident in every movement. With each delicate adjustment, the hairstyle began to take shape, a masterpiece of elegance and sophistication that surpassed even our wildest expectations.

Finally, with a satisfied nod, Gabriel stepped back, allowing Sophia and me to behold his creation in all its glory. A wave of awe washed over me as I caught sight of my reflection in the mirror, a vision of grace and beauty that took my breath away.

It's perfect. I breathed, my voice barely above a whisper. Sophias' smile widened, her eyes sparkling with pride.

You look absolutely stunning, my dear. She exclaimed; her voice filled with admiration. This hairstyle is truly one of a kind, a testament to Gabriels talent and your natural beauty.

pleasure.

Miss Parkins is waiting for you in your room with your dress, Gabriel informed me as I prepared to leave the chamber.

Thank you, goodbye! I responded, masking the discomfort of my throbbing leg with a forced smile. The pain from the fall earlier lingered, a constant reminder of the stupid decision. I glanced down at my leg, noting the deep bruises that marred my skin. It was a sight I hoped the dress would conceal.

As I made my way to my room and Meredith was standing beside my bed, the dress draped gracefully over her arms. My gaze swept over the room, settling on Ethan, who remained in the corner.

Ethan? Why are you still here? Shouldn't you be getting ready, too? I questioned, puzzled by his presence.

Grandmas in town tonight; she came a long way. So, father decided it's for the best not to go. Well, be attending Miss Longfords ball next week. I was hoping you would join us, Ethan explained, his voice filled with warmth and sincerity.

A sense of relief washed over me at Ethans invitation. Despite the disappointment of missing tonights event, the prospect of attending the ball with Ethan and his family filled me with anticipation. It would be an opportunity to make up for tonights missed opportunity.

Of course, I would be delighted to join you. I replied. Thank you for inviting me.

Ethans' smile widened, his eyes shining with excitement. It's settled then. Well, make it a night to remember. He declared, his enthusiasm contagious.

With a renewed sense of hope, I turned my attention to Meredith, who stood patiently with the dress in hand.

The dress did little to conceal the bruising on my leg; its layers ended just above my knees, leaving the discolored skin exposed. Disappointment washed over me as I examined my reflection in the mirror, knowing that my father would not be pleased with the outcome.