15. Genevieve

I have to revisit our suite in order to dress for this family dinner. Although the room is empty I can still taste his spiced scent. I take pains to look my best, maybe he’ll think back on this plunging emerald green gown next time he’s fled the scene and regret some decisions. Especially with its halter neck tied in a bow that trailed down my back.

My blonde hair falls like a shimmering waterfall, my green eyes are bright and energetic. The air itself has a crackle to it as though something has to happen. The more I ponder just what scenarios could happen in a dining room with Nikolai the less I regret leaving my underwear in its drawer.

So finally, draped in a flowing emerald green silk dress I practically float down the red-carpeted corridors. The fire torches are lit, stained glass windows at the head of every staircase gleaming ominously. Night is when this gloomy castle comes to life.

Walking into the dining room I was quickly deflated. Alexander, Helena, Freya and Phillipe an