Chapter 10 Duke-010

At his residence, Barnum felt tension when he received the masquerade ball invitation from the Vesper family. Considering his advanced age, he felt the event was more suitable for the younger generation. Barnum thought it would be better if Hazel represented him. His daughter would be more fitting at such an event.

"Duke Kingsley!" The name suddenly popped into Barnum's mind. He was sure his future son-in-law would also be invited. Duke Kingsley was a very influential figure in social circles. It would be very advantageous if Hazel attended with Duke Kingsley. Perhaps this was an opportunity for them to get to know each other better. Barnum smiled, pleased with his brilliant idea.

"Ramon," Barnum called his head servant with a firm tone.

Ramon, always ready to follow orders, immediately approached. "Is there anything I can assist you with, Sir?"

"Connect me with Duke Kingsley," Barnum ordered.

After the call connected, Duke Kingsley's baritone voice could be heard on the other end.

"Good evening," Duke Kingsley greeted.

"Good evening, Duke Kingsley. I assume you also received the invitation to the masquerade ball from the Vesper family."

"Of course."

"You will be attending, won't you?" Barnum asked hopefully.

"You know I'm not a fan of such events."

"Ah, I see," Barnum replied, his tone tinged with disappointment.

"However, I might consider attending if your daughter would accompany me."

"Excellent!" Barnum's disappointment vanished instantly, replaced by excitement. "I will make sure Hazel is ready to accompany you."

"In that case, I will come to your residence to pick up your daughter."

Barnum ended the call, elated. His plan was going smoothly. He quickly summoned Ramon.

"Make sure Hazel is prepared perfectly. She must be impressive. Do not disappoint Duke Kingsley," Barnum instructed.

***

Hazel sat before the mirror, her discomfort clearly visible. Her father had asked her to dress as beautifully as possible to accompany her future husband to the masquerade ball hosted by the Vesper family. The servants assigned by Barnum worked hard to transform Hazel's pale face into a healthy and radiant one. However, more than her appearance, Hazel was worried about something else.

She felt anxious about how to behave in front of a man she didn't know. Each brushstroke on her face seemed to add to her tension and worry. Hazel stared at the mirror, trying to find courage beneath the layers of makeup covering her pale skin.

She felt like a doll on display, with no control over what was about to happen. Every second felt agonizingly slow, while her emotions churned inside.

"Lady," Ramon said as he entered the dressing room, "you look absolutely stunning."

Hazel felt no pride in the compliment. She merely offered a weak smile.

"Duke Kingsley has arrived."

Hazel was startled. She didn't want to go with a man she had just met. This was their first meeting. The urge to rebel and run away was strong, but she had no other choice.

Once the makeup artists were finished, Ramon extended his hand to help Hazel stand. "Your father and Duke Kingsley are waiting."

Hazel took Ramon's hand and descended the stairs. Her heart pounded in her chest. The sound of her father's conversation with the stranger only heightened her anxiety.

When she reached the bottom, the man talking with Barnum Ellsworth turned. From behind a black and gold mask, his blue eyes met Hazel's.

"Ah, here is my daughter," Barnum said, taking Hazel's hand and leading her towards Duke Kingsley. "I hope you enjoy the ball."

Duke Kingsley took Hazel's hand. "I will take care of your daughter."

Hazel whispered, "I'm leaving, Father."

"Your hand is cold," Duke Kingsley remarked, releasing Hazel's hand as they reached his luxurious car.

Hazel froze for a moment. This voice sounded familiar, but when had she ever heard it? Weren't they meeting for the first time?

Duke Kingsley's chauffeur opened the car door for them. But Hazel remained standing, preoccupied with the familiar voice.

"Ladies first," Duke Kingsley said, gesturing for Hazel to enter the car.

Hazel entered the black car without saying a word.

"Have you forgotten that we were invited to the masquerade ball by the Vesper family?" Duke Kingsley asked, breaking the silence as the car started moving.

"I remember."

"Why aren't you wearing a mask?"

"I'm just tired of pretending. Do you mind if I show up as I am at the ball later, Duke Kingsley?"

"Don't be too formal, Lady. After all, we're going to be married soon," Duke Kingsley replied with a slight smile. "I don't want anyone to feel pressured around me. In fact, I'm not particularly fond of attending parties or engaging in small talk."

"Then why are you attending?"

"For business reasons," Duke Kingsley replied. "Do you mind being alone at the ball? I need to discuss some important matters with my colleagues there."

"That's fine, as long as you remember to take me home," Hazel said.

***

Duke Kingsley truly showed his indifference. He left Hazel in the middle of the ballroom and joined the crowd of important people, laughing while enjoying champagne.

Hazel felt frustrated and couldn't understand why her father was so eager to match her with a man who seemed as selfish as Duke Kingsley. However, she decided not to wallow in sadness. If her future husband could have fun, then she deserved to find her own enjoyment as well.

With renewed determination, Hazel climbed the stairs towards a quiet hallway and finally reached the balcony. The night view from here was breathtaking, with a sky full of stars and the majestic towers of ancient castles. This country maintained the charm of ancient architecture amidst modern advancements. Hazel sipped her champagne while taking in the beauty of the night.

Suddenly, a familiar voice broke the silence. "What is Lady doing here?"

Hazel turned around, surprised. "You..."

"Yes, it's me," Rainhard answered with a smile. Without his mask, his ocean-blue eyes gazed at Hazel intently.

"Why are you here?"

"Because I was invited," Rainhard replied with a teasing tone.

Hazel looked at the man for a moment with a sense of longing, but quickly composed herself. "You seem to frequent prestigious events," she said flatly.

Rainhard asked softly, "Do you truly not recognize me?"

Hazel answered curtly, "There's no need to get to know each other, as there's no chance to build any relationship after I get married."

Rainhard laughed cynically. Hazel was confused as to why this mysterious man could laugh in such an awkward situation.

"Maybe you don't know me, Lady, but I'm sure you can't forget me," Rainhard said confidently.

Hazel lowered her head, feeling embarrassed as Rainhard seemed to know her heart. "You shouldn't be here."

"That's how women are," Rainhard said, sipping his champagne casually. "What you say often differs from what you feel."

"What do you mean?" Hazel glanced at him.

"You can judge for yourself. Is what you say the same as what you truly feel?"

"There's no need for us to get to know each other," Hazel said. "I came here with my fiancé."

"Let me guess. Your fiancé is more focused on business than paying attention to you. That's why you're here... with me."

"You..." Hazel glared at him angrily, offended by how accurately Rainhard had guessed.

"It's obvious that you'll feel tortured if you marry such a man," Rainhard mocked. "Don't you want to chase after what you once called 'your own desires'?"

"That's none of your business," Hazel replied.

"It is my business." Rainhard stepped closer and whispered in Hazel's ear, "I know an interesting place where we won't be disturbed. Interested? No one will ever know."

Hazel felt a shiver run through her body. The offer was tempting. This man was incredibly attractive, with an air of mystery surrounding him.

Then, with a charming style, Rainhard asked, "So, is Lady still not interested in spending a pleasant evening with me?"

***