Vivienne stood in front of the full-length mirror, slipping the gown on. The emerald-green silk fabric shimmered under the bright light of the fitting room, with every movement. With a sweetheart neckline, a thin jeweled belt cinching the waist, and gold embroidery, the gown was truly magnificent. Simple yet sophisticated — perfect for a refined evening at a charity ball.
She stepped back into the room, standing in front of Maria. At first, she said nothing, scrutinizing the dress; drawing her eyes together. Then slowly, a subtle smile curved on her lips.
"Beautiful! This one is perfect for the night. Simple but elegant."
Vivienne smiled. "I love it, too."
"I see; you've already developed quite good taste." Maria gave her a small nod and then addressed the attendants. "This one is final."
An attendant stepped forward to take her final measurements, ensuring that the dress would fit her perfectly. After she left, both of them stepped out into the lounge.
They settled down on two cushioned chairs, and one of the store attendants brought two cups of coffee. The warm aroma filled their nostrils instantly.
Maria watched Vivienne with a smile plastered on her lips. She'd never taken her shopping — this was the first time. Since she was a design student herself, Maria wanted to test her taste in dresses. Besides, she was going to be part of Ashford soon.
As they sipped the coffee, Maria asked. "What do you think about the charity ball, Viv?"
"To be honest, I'm a little nervous. I've never been to any of these before." Vivienne smiled.
This was not the truth. In her past life, she'd indeed attended the Ashfords' charity ball twice, but that was after her marriage. One was during the first year when she was still a naive, nervous girl, and the other one was in the year she died — only to get mocked by the people.
But those memories were better left buried; especially in front of Maria Ashford.
Maria returned her a smile, slowly patting her hands. "Don't worry, you'll fit right in. And.. you'll be gorgeous in that emerald gown."
As they chatted, Vivienne's thoughts drifted to the upcoming event. The charity ball was held every year, a fundraising event for various philanthropic causes. It was a prominent social gathering, attended by the influential elites of the city.
But Vivienne knew the true purpose — it wasn't just a charity ball, but a calculative move of the Ashford family to display their power and influence in Rontrix. It served as a stage — for observing allies and enemies, measuring loyalties, forming new alliances, political maneuvering and even blackmailing certain guests.
This ball was extremely important for the Ashfords; even more for her — to clear all doubts in Maria's mind.
Sensing her unease, Maria leaned in. "You'll do great. Besides, Damien will be by your side all the time, what to worry about? Just be yourself, and wear that beautiful smile of yours, okay?"
Vivienne laughed. "Thank you, Grandma, I appreciate your effort."
"Good girl." She caressed her cheeks.
As they finished their coffee, Maria glanced at her watch. "Viv, we should probably head out. I have something important to do later today."
"Sure!" Brushing her dress with her hands, Vivienne stood up. The tailor would send the gown to the Winter mansion once the fitting was done.
As they walked out of the store, Viquiete felt a quiet excitement building inside her already. She was waiting for the day.
As they reached the curb, the driver opened the door for them. Maria entered first, and then Vivienne followed. The vehicle glided smoothly, blending into the city's traffic. Vivienne turned her gaze outside the window, watching the city blur past.
"Do you know why this ball is so important, Viv?" Maria asked her.
Vivienne looked sideways. "Yes, Grandma. It's not just a fundraising event, it's a statement."
It was just a small sentence, but it effortlessly carried the underlying meaning.
Maria was stunned for a moment.
Beside her sat the girl she'd known since her childhood; she was always well-behaved and sophisticated in social gatherings, but Maria never thought a young girl like her would possess such sharp intelligence, where other girls her age would just come to enjoy these events!
A thin, appreciating smile appeared on her lips. "Viv, you inpress me. I've never thought you'd be so smart."
Vivienne said in a joking tone. "Otherwise, how'd I stand out beside Damien?"
Maria laughed.
"True. But there's more. There'll be families who'll watch everything, measure every step taken, and most importantly — you."
"Me!"
"Yes, because you're going to be a part of the Ashfords soon, and in our family, ladies bear an important place as well. You must not give them anything to question."
Vivienne lowered her gaze for once, then again looked up with assurance in her gaze. "I understand, Grandma."
"I know you do. That's why I brought you today." Maria said, her voice softened a lot. "I wanted to see if you'd pick a dress that reflects the woman you're becoming — not the girl you once were."
Vivienne allowed herself a small smile. "And did I pass?"
Maria's answering smile was slow and satisfied. "With flying colors."
They reached the Winter mansion just past noon. The car pulled up at the entrance of the mansion. Vivienne looked at Maria, "Grandma, have lunch with us...?"
Maria smiled. "Another time. I have something to do today."
"Okay." She didn't press further and got down. The car soon fled away towards the Ashfords' residence.
Vivienne exhaled deeply, then with slow, lazy steps, entered the house.
After a long shower followed by a heavy lunch, Vivienne rolled on her bed. The moment she closed her eyes for a quick nap, someone knocked at the door.
'What now?' She sat up, annoyed. From the side, a well-known voice was heard. "Viv, are you busy?"
Vivienne's jaw clenched the moment she heard that voice. It was Sarah. As always, uninvited and smiling like they were sisters.
'What does she want now?' She stood up and headed towards the door.
As soon as the door opened, Sarah was seen standing on the other side, smiling. "Were you doing something?"
"No, come in." She gave her a fake smile.
Sarah entered the room and settled herself on the bean bag. Vivienne sat on her bed. "What's up?"
Sarah smiled at her. "Viv, how have you been lately?"