ei’s

ntly collected their empty glasses and swiftly replaced them with brimming ones

pill my drink,” one of the men

les we had been explicitly taught. We were strictly instructed not to engage with the guests. However,

entire being. My heart thudded heavily in my chest

ad made it abundantly clear that any misstep would be met with severe punishment. Now, al

dly, as I swiftly reached for a napkin and extend

ncident disrupted the ongoing

ling air. Gripping my hand firmly, he directed it towards his lap, his intentions unmistakable. Instin

men, his voice firm and authoritative. I turned my gaze t

pride fueling his indignation at my refusal to comply with his inap

I managed to utter, my voice trembl

,” he commanded, his words fil

ences of disobeying the strict instruction ne

r mercy, my words barely audible

his foot. My head bowed in submission, he placed his hand beneath my chin, tilting it u

he whispered, his fingers

ct, I looked away, seeking h

what kind of punishment is waiting for you,” he murmured softly, his voice f

d with an unpleasant offer. Disgust rose inside my mind as I was not that type of person. Despite my

. Sudden murmurs erupted from the guests inside the grand ballroom. The man s

the room, his eyes scanning the scene before settling on me.

te accident, I swear. I didn’t mean to make…”

her eyes that were once curious now

ident will never recur under my watchful eye,” Monsieur Remus interje

g out, her eyes steady as she stood by my side, offering her

’s persistent stare, gratitude floo

hus bellowed, his rage rev

ed right before you,” Lady Shire retorted, ge

d out, his voice commanding h

brimming with concern. She extended her hand tow

ntion, but it is never acceptable to touch a woman without her c

rom him like wisps of smoke. He was on the brink of an expl

espicable behavior. I will ensure he regains his composure,” interjecte

tion back to me, her eyes f

e inquired, her voice

eed to panic,” Monsieur Remus reassured, his friendly

Shire, come with me,” he continued

th a reassuring smile, assuring her that I was indeed unharmed. She ob

mous whisper. With a furious grip on my arm, she fo

ring shadow of an ancient apple tree. She violently pushed me against the

n, huh? Nothing new to that, bitch!” sh

an accident. I beg your forgiveness, Vienna,”

o keep your face hidden!” she shouted, her voice