Cinderella Spell - Laurie Lee Page 0,16

to consider the possibility. Better to focus on other eligible men in attendance. Lord Bainwych sent a card requesting two dances. Stephen and Denver were like puppies following her around. Perhaps one of them would suit Sereh?

Sereh switched the gold gown for one of soft green that highlighted her eyes. Marissa nodded. “The perfect dress. That color compliments you.”

“But will Robert like it?” Sereh whined.

Marissa shrugged. “For truth, I’ve never noticed an affection.” Sereh dropped the dress on the floor and Marissa held her hand up. “That doesn’t matter. The color flatters you. The ball is meant for the prince to choose a wife, not a gown.”

But Sereh was already moving on, selecting a bright blue monstrosity. Marisa shook her head, wrinkling her nose. Next came a deeper blue. Sereh traced a finger along the satin fabric. “Everyone knows the prince favors navy.”

Marissa held up a finger. “And half the court will be wearing that exact shade.” Three more dresses were soon discarded.

Marissa heard a distant bell. She jumped to her feet, grabbing Sereh’s hand. “I have lessons. I’m sure you will find the best ball gown. Remember, dinner at eight, ladies only.” She ran from the room.

What had possessed her to invite Sereh to stay in the palace?

“Marissa DeGanne, Mistress Eloise informs me you have not been to your fitting.”

The sound of Mother’s voice caused her heart to plummet. Marissa turned. “Fitting?”

“For your ball gown.”

Marissa frowned. “I have plenty of gowns suitable for a royal engagement. We’ve been through this already.”

Lady DeGanne offered a thin smile. “You care for Robert. Why would you not attempt to draw his hand?”

“We are friends.” How was she to make her mother understand? “He and I even discussed it once.” She held up her hand to stop her mother’s protest. “Not when I was twelve.”

Lady DeGanne’s lips tightened as she stood straighter. “If you do not wish to capture the attention of the prince as a suitor, you still have a responsibility as a member of the royal household. You will be fitted.”

Marissa lowered her eyes and managed to nod. “Yes, mother.” It would mean standing still and getting pricked by pins. She wanted to argue, but mother turned into the yellow sitting room, leaving her alone in the hallway.

Within the hour, Bentley, one of the younger lads on staff, managed to find Marissa and take her to Mistress Eloise.

“Finally, the illusive princess.” Eloise spoke with a strong accent.

“I’m not a princess.” She tried once again to get the petite woman with a mass of black curls pulled up with ribbons to understand, but Eloise refused to be turned.

“You are the prince’s particular friend.” She patted Marissa’s cheek. “You will know beyond doubt how best to entice him.” Eloise’s dark eyes glittered as she pulled Marissa toward a bundle of cloth bolts.

Marissa clutched her hand to her mouth to stop any desire to insult the brash colors popping out among the more traditional whites and rosy hues. Orange? Who would wear such a hideous color to a ball? And what term could be used for the green resembling split pea soup?

“Which will Robert prefer best?” Eloise waited, brows raised.

I don’t want to pick for Robert. Marissa didn’t dare say the words aloud, but she passed over the navy and white print which would have made a lovely full skirt.

“More guests tonight?” Lady DeGanne glanced over the edge of her wine glass.

Sereh blanched, but Marissa tapped her hand, reassuring her. “You remember Sereh. She stayed with us most of last summer.” Marissa watched Mother’s perfectly arched brow lift.

“Did she? I do not recall.” She placed her glass on the table and waved her hand. “So many young ladies come and go.”

“Mother.” Marissa gave a hard look, and then turned to smile at Sereh. “Did you choose the gown you will wear to the ball?”

Sereh picked up a thin silver fork and used it to tug on the oyster inside a half shell.

“Oh, dear.” Lady DeGanne groaned. “You shouldn’t use that fork.” She pressed a hand against her throat. “Oysters come from the sea. Are you trying to poison yourself?”

The clatter of silverware disrupted the dining room even more as Sereh dropped the offending tool. “Oh, my goodness, I meant no disrespect.”

Marissa put an arm around her shoulder to calm Sereh. “Simple mistake to make. Here, let them take care of the mess. Can’t stand the slimy things myself. I prefer we start with a simple salad platter.”

Sereh relaxed. “I prefer the days cook sends