Forever Without You

2

1634, Rome, Italy.
DeMarcell Manor.

Freya

"I, Thomas DeRoleo, Iove you, with all my heart and soul" speaks my love, Thomas.

Thomas DeRoleo, the boy I had met at the age of fourteen, almost three years ago.
I had never told my parents about him. I mean, how could they accept a poor, working-class boy into the rich, spoilt DeMarcell family? 

We had hidden in the garden of my manor, a place my family rarely entered. 

Tonight was the very first Masquerade Ball our family would throw. It was only open to the elite class, including royals. I had somehow convinced Thomas to attend, secretly, he would be allowed in, as I would give him an expensive suit, fitted to his size, along with a beautiful mask which cost me hundreds.

It would be the first time in public we would be seen together, and we were thrilled.

"As I, Freya DeMarcell,  will always love you. Always and forever" I reply, and in response to it all, he gives me the warmest smile that meets with his gorgeous blue eyes, a smile I would do anything to see.

"You must leave! Take these with you" I continue, handing him the costume along with the mask. "I will see you soon, my love," I say, stroking his soft cheek.

He presses his soft lips against mine, and with that, he leaves.

I smile to myself and head back into the manor, careful not to spend too much time out to be questioned.

As I walk up the grand staircase, I walk straight into my mother, Lilia DeMarchell, a kind woman, only to those of class.

"Freya, dear. Your dress is hanging in your room. I trust you will be attending the event tonight?" she questions. I give her a plastered smile as I speak.

"Of course, mother. Anything for the family" I reply, and with that, she gives me a smile.

"Smart decision. I shall be getting ready. A few servants are in your room lined up to help you. Move on!" she demands, and I of course oblige.

As I enter my room, on the wall is a burgundy coloured ball gown. It's detailing is spectacular, my heart yearns for those who struggled to create this beauty.

I smile and thank the women who help me with my outfit, the corset practically sucking half my oxygen.

Before I know it, it's dusk and time for the Masquerade Ball.

The first time Thomas would step into my home, and not in secret.

I place my burgundy-matching mask onto my tanned skin and begin to walk down my staircase, careful not to trip on my heels.

As I arrive into the ballroom, I spot Beethoven seated at my piano. Guests begin to enter, and the music starts. 

My head turns into awkward positions as I greet people, constantly on the search for my love, Thomas.

I say goodbye to Charles VI as I spot the most handsome man, Thomas, enter the room. 
I meet his eyes, and I give him the biggest smile which he returns.

I resist the urge not to jump straight into his arms, careful not to cause suspicion.

As my favourite song begins to play, Moonlight Sontana, I look up at my future husband.

"Care for a dance?" I ask.

"Anything for you, my love" he replies, and my heart flutters.

Over the years, I had taught him how to dance, anticipating a day like this.