The Vaillness' Faithful Dog II vadtd x M.y/n II

(6) A Vow To Oneself.

The party held at the palace went by smoothly. In other words, it was utterly dull.

Roxana later left my side to greet some elderly ladies and inquire about the latest gossip it seems.

Meanwhile, no one approached me, whether to gawk and ogle at me from a distance, or acknowledge my presence with just a nod.

'God, what was this Duke like to have everyone staring at him like that?'

Roxana continued her charade of interest toward others while occasionally casting curious glances my way.

And as the night progressed, I found myself standing alone in a corner, nursing an empty glass of wine.

"Your Grace, how splendid you look tonight,"

One middle-aged dowager shrieked, descending upon me like a ravenous monster, her hand reaching out to brush against my chest ever so slightly.

"Oh, please, Grandma, spare us both,"

I muttered under my breath, turning away, hoping she'd get the damn hint.

'Tsk, dammit perv,...'

I couldn't help but feel out of place, like a misplaced piece of furniture.

Judging by the clock on the wall, it wasn't even midnight yet; this ceremony was going to drag on forever.

"Are you enjoying yourself?"

A silky smooth voice addressed me, startling me slightly.

"Not particularly,"

I answered honestly, not even bothering to spare them a glance, crossing my arms over my chest defensively.

"It's rather tiresome."

I admitted, unable to mask the contempt in my tone.

"Although, speaking of boring things, shouldn't you find someone more interesting to waste your time on?"

Turning around, my eyes met piercing blue ones studying me curiously.

A stern handsome face along with black hair and blue eyes.

I could recognize 'em anywhere.

Derrick Eckhart.