CHAPTER 171: THE ENGAGEMENT BALL

After dinner, the trio made their way to Lilith’s chambers. As soon as they were all inside, she shut the door firmly. Viktor leaned casually against the bedpost while Charlotte sat at the edge of the bed. Lilith remained by the door, turning to face them.

"So, what is it you wanted to talk to me about?" she asked.

Viktor and Charlotte exchanged a glance before Viktor spoke. "It’s about your mother."

Lilith’s interest sharpened. "What about my mother?"

"She’s been... acting strangely around Viktor," Charlotte explained. "When we went to the garden to thank her for the tea, she just kept staring at him like he was some sort of rare creature. The entire conversation was awkward, honestly."

"And I saw her staring at my window from the courtyard, through my window," Viktor added. "When she realized I’d seen her, she panicked and tried to play it off. But I can feel something is off. I wanted to ask if you know anything, why she behaves like that around me."

A heavy silence settled over them as Lilith processed their words. She had noticed her mother’s strange behavior as well her excessive curiosity about Viktor had not gone unnoticed.

She sighed, running her fingers through her hair. "I’ve noticed it too. She’s asked me about you. A lot, actually. When I pressed her about why she was so interested in you, she just brushed it off and changed the subject."

"Could you try talking to her again?" Viktor asked. "I need to know what’s going on."

"I’ll do what I can," Lilith promised. "I’m sorry for the discomfort. I don’t think she means any harm, but I will figure out what she’s hiding."

"Thank you, Lilith. But you don’t need to apologize, you’re just as in the dark as we are," Viktor said.

"You’re right about that. I’ll get to the bottom of it soon," Lilith reassured them.

Viktor let out a small yawn, stretching. "I need to retire to my chambers. I’m feeling quite tired."

Lilith’s brow furrowed with concern. "You’re not still feeling unwell, are you? Do you need more tea?"

"No, no. Not at all. I just need some rest," he assured her as he made his way to the door. "I’ll take my leave now. Good night, ladies."

"Good night, Viktor," Charlotte called after him as she followed him out of the room shortly after.

Lilith remained, her thoughts lingering on everything Viktor had told her. She sat in silence, trying to it all together, until exhaustion finally pulled her into sleep’s gentle embrace.

~~~

Lilith woke to the sound of a heavy downpour that lasted for about an hour. After eating and freshening up, she and Charlotte spent time picking out dresses for the engagement ball. By the time they were done, a few more hours had passed. They returned to their rooms for a brief nap while the mansion buzzed with preparations. Lilith only caught a glimpse of her mother, who was preoccupied with ensuring everything was in order.

By evening, the guests had already begun to arrive. The trio gathered to dress before making their way to the ballroom. It was just as grand as Lilith had imagined, flowers adorned every corner, bright lights sparkled, and lively music filled the air.

Lilith stood just outside the ballroom’s entrance, her hand resting lightly on Charlotte’s arm as they waited for Viktor. She wore a deep sapphire gown, simple yet striking. Her hair was curled, cascading down her shoulders in waves. Charlotte dazzled in a red dress with silver embroidery that shimmered with every step.

"Viktor was supposed to be here ages ago," Lilith muttered, shifting uncomfortably. "My feet are beginning to hurt."

Charlotte chuckled softly. "He must have been caught up with something. I don’t know why he suddenly decided to change his coat. It looked perfectly fine to me." Her gaze dropped to Lilith’s feet. "You should have worn the white shoes."

Lilith sighed. "I should have. I’m only staying here for an hour before retreating to my chambers. I honestly don’t want to spend another moment with these people."

"I understand. We’ll leave as soon as we can," Charlotte agreed, her voice kind.

Soon, Viktor appeared, dressed in a well-tailored black coat with silver accents that fit him like a second skin. His hair was neatly combed back.

"Forgive me, ladies. I had a slight setback," he explained with a warm smile, offering his arm to Lilith. "Shall we?"

As they entered the ballroom together, all eyes turned to them.

Murmurs rippled through the crowd as nobles and young ladies stole glances at the trio. The young women, fluttering their fans nervously, stared unabashedly at Viktor, who noticed their lingering gazes but paid them no mind, his head and shoulder held high.

Charlotte leaned in and whispered with an impish grin, "You’ve captured the entire room’s attention."

"We all have. A few gentlemen are smiling foolishly at you," Lilith replied, her voice low as she leaned into Charlotte.

"Ah, how interesting." Charlotte’s eyes gleamed mischievously as she followed Lilith’s gaze to two young men who were openly staring at them.

Prudence soon approached, her betrothed trailing dutifully behind her. She was dressed in a long gold gown, her dark hair pinned with jewels. Her smile was tight as she greeted them.

"Well, well, look who decided to grace us with her presence." She wrapped her arm possessively around his. "This is my future husband, Duke Dain Sarhon. These are Lilith and her friends."

The Duke offered a polite smile. "It’s a pleasure to meet you, Lilith. I’ve heard so much about you," he said, his voice sharp but polite.

Lilith blinked, slightly surprised. "It’s a pleasure meeting you too, my lord." She returned his smile, wondering why Prudence had spoken about her to her betrothed.

The Duke’s gaze shifted to Charlotte, whom he greeted briefly, before landing on Viktor. His eyes widened slightly as Viktor introduced himself.

"Lord Rune? I’ve heard so much about you. I’m beyond honored to finally meet you," Dain said, excitement lacing his voice as he bowed politely to Viktor.

"The pleasure is mine," Viktor replied smoothly, though he had no idea who this man was. By the look on Prudence’s face, she didn’t seem pleased with her husband’s admiration for Viktor.