I sucked in my breath as the maid tightened my corset. I hated the stupid things. They made it impossible to breathe correctly and I couldn't slouch.
"I think that's tight enough." I told her.
"Nonsense, Charlotte. A corset is supposed to be that tight. You must look your best. A ball for your eighteenth birthday only comes once in a lifetime." My mother glided into the room.
My mother was a perfectionist, especially about me. She wanted me to be a proper lady, like she was. I could never do that. I always got scolded for slouching or talking out do place.
"Eighteenth birthdays only come once in a lifetime." I muttered under my breath.
"Besides many handsome young gentlemen will be attending." She coaxed me slightly.
"Why would that matter?" I looked at her.
"You're now at a marrying age. Suitors will be interested now." My mother told me as the maid pinned my hair up in piles of elaborate curls.
I shook my head as much as I could. I stood up, letting the main fasten the hooks on the back of the dress. Mother said that the blue silk brought out my eyes. I still thought that the ball was over-the-top for my birthday thought.
I headed downstairs after Mother approved of what I was wearing. I had the urge to go back to tell the maid to loosen my corset.
"Ms. Charlotte Denali." Someone announced me as I made my way down the staircase.
I smiled politely as more people came over to wish me a happy birthday. I would have preferred to be anywhere else, reading a good book or singing.
YOU ARE READING
Improper But Free
General FictionMs. Charlotte Denali is turning eighteen and is now of marrying age. The problem is that she has no interest in finding a husband, or been being a proper lady. Mr. Henry Parker is looking for a wife and is introduced to Charlotte at a ball thrown fo...