Chapter 5

Alexander stood in front of the dressing mirror, struggling to tie the knot of his dress frustration began to creep in when suddenly he felt an arm wrap around him, already assisting in tying the knot "guess someone is excited to meet his soon-to-be wife" the voice remarked Alexander inhaled sharply, immediately recognizing the voice of Elise, his childhood best friend and mistress "Elise, how long have you been here?" he asked, stretching his arm wide to give her full access to tie the knot "long enough to watch you get dressed, it seems you are lost in thought that you can't even feel me" Elise replied, standing in front of him and simultaneously tying the knot while maintaining eye contact "So she is human?" she asked, gently settling him down on the chair to brush his hair "Yes" Alex responded, inhaling sharply "you could have just married one of your mistresses. Why do you intend on marrying a human, knowing she won't be able to get pregnant with your child?" she questioned curiously "I want a virgin," Alex responded coldly, causing Elise to scoff "You didn't tell me that when I gave you mine" she said while applying lotion to his hair and brushing it down "Elise, this is not just about virginity... I... I..." he trailed off "you won't understand... I don't want to marry a vampire like my own kind" he added with a sigh Elise slammed her finger on his lips, cutting him off "Shh..." she hushed him, her eyes filled with understanding. Alex looked at her, a mix of relief and gratitude in his eyes "Just know that you will always be my confidant, even if I do get married" Elise smiled softly, her hand gently caressing his cheek "I know," she responded softly as Alex took her hand off his cheeks "Elise..." he breathed heavily, standing up. "Thank you," he added, his voice filled with gratitude "That's why we are friends" She smiled "Sadly, I won't be able to meet her until sunset, but I promise I will make time to see her once the day is less busy," she said "okay" Alex nodded, understanding the constraints that came with Elise's vampire nature "sometimes, I am jealous of you. You can walk even in the sun" Elise remarked playfully, hoping to lighten the mood. Alex smirked in response, appreciating her attempt to bring a touch of levity to their conversation "I have to go" he said abruptly, his cold gaze betraying the weight of his emotions Elise, sensing his guardedness, decided not to press further "I can smell love in the air" Elise teased, trying to restore a sense of ease. However, upon seeing Alex's reaction, she realized that her playful comment had not landed well "I'm sorry," she said sincerely, "That won't happen" he responded and exited the room. 

......

The carriage stopped in front of the castle Isabella shoved the carriage curtain and grasped slightly shocked seeing the castle, the castle stood tall and imposing, with intricate carvings and delicate spires that reached towards the sky Its walls were made of dark stone, giving the castle a mysterious and gothic aura the grand entrance was adorned with intricately designed iron gates, showcasing the castle's somber elegance.

  As Isabella and others stepped out of the carriage, she noticed the breathtaking gardens surrounding the castle The gardens were a mesmerizing display of colors and textures, with a meticulously manicured landscape among the lush greenery, vibrant red roses bloomed and cascaded down trellises, adding a touch of passionate intensity to the scene. The contrast of the dark castle against the vivid red roses created a striking and unforgettable sight, the black roses, carefully placed along the path, added an element of mystery and enchantment to the surroundings their inky petals seemed to absorb all light, giving an ominous yet mesmerizing allure "this way" Lady Charlotte led them towards the entrance, and Bella's heart pounded heavily against her chest "his Highness will meet us in the dining room, so make sure you compose yourself and impress him" Lady Charlotte added, causing Bella to stick out her tongue "I'm not interested in impressing anyone" she whispered to herself. Henry walked beside her, whispering into her ear "Hey! I heard the prince is old, dark, and bald I feel sorry for you, sis" Henry said, his voice filled with mock sympathy Bella's eyes snapped shut in annoyance, and she replied in a hushed tone, "I know, don't remind me" She took a deep breath, trying to calm herself "I will make sure to protect you before going back after your wedding" he reassured her, trying to offer some comfort. Bella managed a small smile, grateful for his support looking around, she realized that they hadn't encountered a single maid since they entered the castle. The palace was surprisingly clean, but the absence of bustling servants was unsettling. Normally, the castle would be buzzing with activity, with maids working diligently and servants walking around Bella couldn't help but wonder why no one seemed to be there she frowned as they followed Lady Charlotte, her mind already calculating her moves in case this was some kind of trap. Lady Charlotte eventually stopped in front of a massive, brown door. With a firm grip, she pulled it open, revealing a charming dining room, the dining room was adorned with nostalgic elements the walls were painted in hues of pastel, with geometric patterns reminiscent of the era a large chandelier in the center emitted a warm, soft glow, casting shadows across the room. The long dining table was set with delicate plates, each with a floral pattern in vibrant colors Crystal glasses sparkled in the gentle light, waiting to be filled with fine wine a silver candelabra stood proudly in the middle, its flickering candles adding a touch of elegance to the scene. On a sideboard, various dishes were meticulously arranged, evoking a sense of home-cooked goodness a platter of succulent roasted chicken, accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes and freshly steamed vegetables, exuded a tantalizing aroma that filled the air.

"Please have a seat," Lady Charlotte said, gesturing towards the ornate chairs that lined the dining table "The prince will meet you soon as he has already been informed of your arrival" Bella's curiosity deepened as Lady Charlotte's words echoed in her mind she glanced around the room, puzzled by the absence of staff or any signs of preparation for a meal "there's no one here, so who made these dishes? They look fresh and hot" she wondered aloud. Bella closed her eyes briefly, trying to compose herself she calculated her moves, strategizing how to escape from the strange castle and town before her wedding her stepmother, Annabelle, and her brother, Henry, sat beside her with Bella caught in between, feeling trapped and desperate for a way out.