The Nymiren's bride

CHAPTER 4

Tonight was the ball. The people of Everia had complicated feelings about it. It wasn't something to celebrate.

Their beautiful princess would be married off to a man who could potentially kill her. There was little joy in that, but still they came. The ballroom had never looked more dazzling. The music played softly in the background, too soft to dance yet loud enough to let everyone know that this was a celebration, even if not everyone felt like celebrating.

Elara stood at the top of the staircase, instantly drawing everyone's attention. Her gown flowed like water down the steps, and blue gems sparkled across the fabric like stars in the night sky. Her maid had helped her pick the dress, saying it would make her the belle of the ball, but deep down, she felt like a doll dressed up for a show.

She smiled as she walked down the stairs to meet everyone. Nobles from all corners of the kingdom were present. They watched her, waiting for her to do or say something. She offered a polite nod as she walked past them. Her father had told her before that the prince would be a no-show, so she had to save face before the nobles to avoid gossip. Even her father, the king, wasn't present either. He claimed to have had something important to take care of, so she was left to host the ball alone with no fiancé and no father at her side. It was laughable. It was supposed to be her engagement ball, but she didn't even have a partner to dance with. Lost in thought, she didn't notice the man approaching until he was standing right before her.

"May I have the honor of dancing with you, my lady?" he asked, offering his hand.

Elara blinked, startled. Her eyes rose to meet he's. His eyes were a beautiful shade of green, and his short black hair framed his face, which was far too perfect for this moment. He looked like a Greek god. She held her breath. For a second, she forgot to speak. Then she gathered herself, smoothing her expression.

" You may," she said softly.

With that, he took her hand and led her onto the dance floor.

The music played as they danced rhythmically to the music. Elara's fingers rested lightly on the man's shoulder, his hand firm yet respectful at her waist. The stubby nobles all watched as they moved harmoniously. They danced as if they had done so a thousand times before, they danced effortlessly in sync. For Elara, the room faded into a blur, as if nothing mattered. For the first time that evening, Elara was truly at peace.

She finds herself looking up to him.

" You're not from around here, are you?" she asked, her voice quiet and curious.

A small smile tugged at the corners of his lips. " What gave that way?"

" You don't look like you feel sorry for me"

"Am I supposed to feel sorry for you?"

"No, but everyone else does"

"Oh, I see."

They spun again. Light caught her gown, making it shimmer like stars scattered across the sky.

"I didn't catch your name," she said.

" That's because I didn't give one"

She raised a brow "a nameless stranger at the royal ball. That sounds like the beginning of a bad story."

"Or a very good one," he said, grinning.

Elara was about to respond when the music stopped. Scattered applause rippled as they ended their dance.

Her hand was lightly in his, he gave a small nod, and was about to leave the dance floor when she called him back.

" Thank you for making my night a good one stranger," she said.

" My pleasure," he smiled and continued walking.

The ball ended. Elara was once again face to face with her dressing mirror, but this time, there was a smile on her face. She was thinking about the stranger. She knew she was not going to see him again, but she wished she would, but that was all wishful thinking.

She changed into her nightdress and was just about to slip into bed when she heard a knock on the door.

She frowned. Who could that be?

She opened the door and saw Evans standing there in dark clothes.

" Evans?" she asked, surprised.

. "Let's go in and talk."

They sat together on her bed, the moonlight spilling across the room.

" Elara," he began," You have to come with me,"

" Why? What's going on?"

" You can't marry that man. I can't stop the marriage, but I can take you somewhere safe where no one will hurt you."

" Evans, I'm not running. What will happen to the people when the prince finds out that his bride is missing?"

He clenched his fist, eyes burning with frustration." Elara, I've done my research, and Northmire is not a place you can stay. The rumors here are nothing compared to what they call him. I can't watch and let you walk to your death. Please...come with me."

She placed a hand gently over his.

" Brother," she began. "You've always protected me, and I appreciate it, but my mind is already made up. Father would be furious if he knew what you were saying. Besides, tonight at the ball, I saw someone who made me feel at peace, and I am grateful for that."

Evans looked away.

" So you have one week left until you're married off to him?"

She nodded. "Yes, and I was hoping my brother would make it the most memorable week of my life.e"

His expression softened. Is that what you want?"

"Yes brother, that's all I want you to do for me"

" Alright"

" Now go change out of those clothes and have a bath you smell"

" I will, see you tomorrow Elara"

"See you tomorrow, brother".

She closed the door behind him, leaned against it for a moment, then. Turned and climbed into bed.