ALEXANDRIA'S POV
The day is spent learning. I memorize so many seating conventions, matters of etiquette, and rules of decoration that my head begins to hurt. I decide to take a walk into the gardens to clear my mind. I also take my headphones with me to play some music. A part of me is worried that I may run into either Raphael or Xavier but I have a feeling that if I stay within the house, immense as it may be, I will definitely go crazy.
The garden is simply a work of art, an opulent canvas meticulously crafted by nature and human hands. As I step through the ornate wrought-iron gate, a world of unrivaled beauty unfolds before me. Glistening cobblestone pathways weave through meticulously manicured lawns, each blade of grass seemingly sculpted to perfection.
Floral tapestries, a kaleidoscope of colors, create a living mosaic that dances in the gentle breeze. Roses of every hue bloom with an unrivaled vibrancy, their fragrance lingering in the air like a sweet, intoxicating symphony. The air is alive with the hum of honeybees and the delicate fluttering of butterflies, drawn to the nectar-rich blossoms.
Marble statues of classical figures stand as silent sentinels amidst the verdant splendor, their graceful forms immortalized in the midst of this botanical paradise. Water features, adorned with intricately carved sculptures, add a harmonious element to the scene. Fountains playfully splash, their crystal-clear waters reflecting the azure sky above.
Quaint stone benches, adorned with plush velvet cushions, invite contemplation amid this oasis of luxury. Canopies of climbing vines create natural archways, providing a sense of intimacy within the grandeur. A symphony of birdsong fills the air, as if nature itself is contributing to the masterpiece that is this garden.
Beyond the blossoming borders, meticulously pruned hedges create a sense of order, framing the opulence within. Lanterns of delicate crystal hang from the branches of ancient trees, casting a warm glow as the sun begins its descent.
In the heart of the garden, a pavilion of intricate design stands as a testament to human craftsmanship. Delicate latticework and ornate patterns create a sanctuary of shade, adorned with plush furnishings that beckon relaxation.
This garden, a harmonious blend of nature's wonders and human artistry, transcends the ordinary, leaving an indelible imprint of luxury and refinement. It is not merely a garden; it is an exquisite symphony of life and design, a sanctuary where time seems to pause, allowing the beauty of the world to unfurl in its most extravagant form.
I walk to one of the lanterns and I look up at it, at the skillfulness of the craftsmanship and that is when my eyes catch a glimpse of a sculpture. It depicts a woman standing tall and regal with her hands clasped together in front of her, eyes fierce, and her face cold. I look up at her and marvel.
“My grandmother, Veronica,” a voice rumbles to my side. I look and it is Lucas standing there with his hands behind him and his face staring up with an almost worshipful gaze. He looks away and the look is gone. His face is blank, not unlike that of the statue.
“She was the first alpha of this pack. Not a Luna, mind you. She was the leader, and won it with blood and fang. She was also the first woman to ever be mated to two wolves at the same time. You know this, yes?” He asks.
“Only taught in passing,” I reply. He frowns as though he is disappointed then he nods and starts to walk away then he stops.
“My brother is fond of you. That is a dangerous thing,” he says and turns to look at me.
“Ah, why?” I ask. Something about him shifts and I feel that weight against me again, that feeling like the world suddenly has no oxygen. I am unable to move, unable to think while he simply stands there with his hands behind his back.
“The affections of beings such as my brothers and I is not something anyone would want to be burdened with. I tell you this because you are a good person and the daughter of a loyal servant. Do your job and leave. Take care,” he says and walks away.
The pressure leaves and I fall to the ground. I see a pair of boots beside me and I look up to see Xavier standing there.
“He's such a ray of sunshine, isn't he? I couldn't hear what he said. What did he say? If you lie to me, I'll know. It's a part of my gifts,” he says and turns those dark whirlpools masquerading eyes on me.