The Cursed Villainess and the Tyrant Duke
Episode 7: A Dance with the Devil
Later that evening, at a grand imperial banquet. The ballroom is illuminated by golden chandeliers, the scent of wine and roses thick in the air. Nobles glide across the dance floor, their laughter mixing with the soft melody of the orchestra.
Evelina, dressed in an elegant dark blue gown that compliments her golden sand skin tone, stands near the edge of the hall, sipping her wine. Her thoughts are still tangled with a certain black-haired duke.
Evelina Everhart
*In mind*Alright, focus. Tonight, I just have to smile, nod, and avoid—
A shadow falls over her. She stiffens before slowly turning.
Valerius Draven
(smoothly) Enjoying yourself, Lady Everhart?
Evelina Everhart
*In mind*Avoid Duke Draven. AVOID. HIM.(;´༎ຶٹ༎ຶ`)
But it’s too late. He stands before her, clad in a sharp black and silver ensemble, exuding effortless power. The nobles nearby sneak glances, whispering amongst themselves.
Evelina Everhart
(forcing a smile) Of course. Nothing like a ball to—
Before she can finish, he extends a gloved hand.
Valerius Draven
Then dance with me.
The air shifts. A hush falls over the spectators. Evelina blinks.
Evelina Everhart
*In mind*… Excuse me?
She glances around, noting the curious and envious gazes on her. The Cursed Villainess and the Tyrant Duke? This will cause rumors.
Evelina Everhart
(raising a brow) You wish to dance with me, Your Grace?
Valerius Draven
(smirking) Would you refuse me?
Evelina Everhart
*In mind*YES. Absolutely. But also… NO
A beat. Then, with feigned indifference, she places her hand in his. His grip is firm, warm, commanding.
Evelina Everhart
(softly) I suppose one dance wouldn’t hurt.
He leads her to the center of the ballroom, where space is cleared for them. The orchestra shifts to a slower, more intimate waltz.
As they move, Evelina is acutely aware of the heat radiating from him, of the way his hand rests against the small of her back, guiding her with effortless precision. His grip is steady, possessive.
Evelina Everhart
*In mind*Why does this feel like something far more dangerous than a dance?
He leans in slightly, his breath warm against her ear.
Valerius Draven
(low voice) You handle yourself well, Lady Everhart.
Evelina Everhart
*In mind*Is that… a compliment? From him?
Evelina Everhart
(smirking) I do try.
They twirl, the world blurring for just a moment. Then, suddenly—
He pulls her closer. Too close. Their noses nearly brush, her lips just a breath away from his. A gasp echoes from the crowd.
Evelina Everhart
*In mind*What— Is he—?!
Valerius Draven
(softly) Careful, Lady Everhart. You’re playing with fire.
His eyes flicker to her lips—just for a second. Then, just as swiftly, he spins her away and releases her. The dance ends, but the tension lingers.
Evelina stands there, breathless, heart racing. Valerius bows slightly, amusement dancing in his stormy gaze.
Valerius Draven
Thank you for the dance.
And just like that, he walks away—leaving her standing there, utterly shaken.
Evelina Everhart
*In mind*This man is going to be the death of me.
Depressed author
like and also comment.
Comments