The time had come, and William, along with Aurelia, arrived at the grand estate where the much-anticipated ball would take place. The imposing building was lit with hundreds of lanterns, creating an almost magical atmosphere. From the entrance, the impressive number of guests was already visible. Ladies in luxurious silk and satin dresses walked through the hallways of the estate, while the men, elegant in their tailcoats, exchanged handshakes and smiles. The buffet was enormous, filled with exquisite delicacies and drinks, and around it, dozens of waiters moved tirelessly, carrying silver trays. Aurelia couldn't hide her excitement. Her eyes sparkled as she looked around, while William, more composed, couldn't help but admit how beautiful the place was. Yet, even he felt a subtle unease, as if something was amiss.
Suddenly, amidst the noise of conversations and music, a familiar voice called out:
"Aurelia!"
She turned her head to the right and saw Lizzy in the distance, happily waving her over. With her, as always, were Ciel, the boy with the serious expression, and his enigmatic butler, Sebastian. William looked annoyed but followed Aurelia as she walked toward them. Ciel was delighted to see her again and, with all the aristocratic politeness that characterized him, gently took her hand and kissed it. Sebastian, on the other hand, gave her a relaxed but mischievous smile, making Aurelia feel a bit awkward. However, she tried not to pay it much mind. After all, she knew she had to put an end to this deadlock between herself and Sebastian.
Ciel then extended his hand and smiled at her.
Ciel: "Might I have a dance with you, my dear?" he asked in a tone that was both polite and slightly protective.
Aurelia smiled and accepted. She took his hand, and together they danced to the rhythm of the music. Their steps were harmonious, as if they had danced together many times before. Lizzy watched them with joy, while William and Sebastian looked at them with different emotions. William preferred seeing his daughter dance with Ciel rather than with Sebastian. As for Sebastian, his gaze was unreadable, relaxed, yet full of calculations.
The dance ended, and Ciel stepped off the floor with Aurelia. However, they didn't manage to take many steps before a man approached them. He was tall, with long black hair that fell to his shoulders, and green eyes that seemed to pierce the soul. His left eye had a scar, adding an air of mystery to his already dark presence. He smiled faintly.
???: "You must be Ciel Phantomhive. It's an honor to meet you," he said, extending his hand toward Ciel.
Ciel, maintaining his usual composure, accepted the handshake, observing the man carefully.
Ciel: "And how may I address you?" he asked coldly.
The man smiled wider but didn't answer immediately. His gaze shifted to Aurelia, who was already starting to feel an uneasy sense of foreboding.
???: "I assume this is your companion?" he asked, with a hint of irony in his voice.
Ciel: "No..." Ciel replied without losing his composure. "She is a very good friend of mine..."
???: "I see. I understand! It's a pleasure to meet you, my lady!" he said, extending his hand toward Aurelia.
She hesitated. Everything about this man told her not to touch him. There was something strange about him, something that made her want to leave as quickly as possible. She took a step back, and at that moment, she felt a strong presence behind her. William, Sebastian, and Lizzy had approached.
William: "Aurelia,"
William said softly, as if giving her a silent warning.
The man chuckled softly.
???: "What delightful company!" he said, looking at each of them individually. "You're all here tonight. It's going to be an interesting evening, don't you think?"
Sebastian smiled, but his gaze darkened.
Sebastian: "Undoubtedly... sir...?"
The man didn't answer right away. Instead, he moved a little closer to Aurelia, making her heart race faster.
???: "May I have the honor of borrowing you for a dance, Miss Aurelia?" he asked in a whispering voice, sending a chill down her spine.
Ciel narrowed his eyes, but before Aurelia could respond, Sebastian stood in front of her.
Sebastian: "I'm afraid the young lady already has enough dances for tonight," Sebastian said in a soft but firm tone. "Perhaps some other time."
The man didn't seem to be bothered. On the contrary, he smiled widely and slightly lowered his head, as if bidding them farewell.
???: "As you wish... for now."
With those words, he disappeared into the crowd, leaving behind an unsettling sense of unease.
Aurelia felt Ciel lightly touch her shoulder.
Ciel: "Are you okay?" he asked, his voice laced with concern.
She nodded, though her heart continued to race. She knew something was wrong.
And she knew that this night had only just begun...