8 The Ball Part 4

Overlooking to gardens, I downed the glass of champagne in my hand and made my way down the stone steps.

Servants had placed lit lanterns on rods into the ground to illuminate the garden with soft ambient light, within the garden were spouting water fountains and beautiful marble sculptures of angels and cupids. Fragrant plants sent out their perfume on the cool wind.

There was moisture on the air now and after the champagne, I had begun feeling a little light headed. Stumbling to one of the benches, I sat down to stop my head from spinning.

Looking up I saw Lord Rodrick, A high ranked member of the council, walking towards me.

He was a chunky old man with a bulging belly and receding hairline. " Good Evening Miss Blackwood," he spoke with a slight lisp and high pitched voice. "You are looking well this evening."

Taking a seat next to me, he reeked of alcohol and tobacco. "Good evening, Lord Rodrick."

As his eyes traced over me he smiled slyly. "I dare say, you have grown into a fine woman Miss Blackwood. Your father should be very proud of having produced such a beauty." He had moved closer now, causing me to lean backward slightly. "Er, you flatter me, Milord." he snorted a little hearing my response, slowly placing his hand on my lap. "I'm sure you have many suitors after you."

I had frozen momentarily trying to process the situation. Although I was uncomfortable I did not want to offend him out of respect as he was my fathers' friend. "I should be getting back milord, my parents will be looking for me." trying to stand up, he grabbed onto my arm. "Don't worry dear, I'm sure they know you're safe here. sit with me a while longer." I tried pulling my arm away but he only tightened his grip. "Milord, you are hurting me." Pulling me back down onto the bench he whispered into my ear "Looking like that dear, How can I resist you." I tried pushing him away but he only forced himself further on to me.

Before I could shout for help he had been yanked off of me, in shock he turned to see Caleb De Lioncourt standing in front of me. Caleb spoke, his voice stern, " Lord Rodrick, I think it is time for you to call it a night. I'm sure your wife is waiting for you." Lord Rodrick, mumbling incoherently, straightened out his coat and left to return to the mansion.

Caleb turned towards me now, his face cold and expressionless. reaching out his hand to help me up, I stood to adjust my dress. I stared at him, my heart pounding in my chest.

Struggling to open my mouth, I began to speak but before I could thank him for protecting me, he had turned his back to me and walked away. Leaving me alone in the garden.

I took a moment to calm myself down and then returned to the mansion as if nothing had happened.