Royal Masquerade - The Prince And Cinderella

Ella’s gaze turned vacant as she endured her sister Ava’s ceaseless chatter about her upcoming wedding and the countless details. It revolved around how the wedding would be unforgettable and set the standard for others to imitate. How Ava would be a trendsetter? Ella was attempting to ignore her twin completely. Ava enjoyed the sound of her voice. It wasn’t required for Ella to speak! Just hear how fantastic her sister was. Ella smirked to herself. It’s not something Ava would allow her to forget. Currently, she was sitting at their parent’s kitchen table, aiding their mum in preparing the vegetables for dinner. Instead of helping, Ava simply stood there, engrossed in a one sided conversation with her captive audience. Unfortunately! Ava’s presence at dinner tonight came as a surprise to her. Despite being a planned supper, the family aimed to gather weekly for a meal. Ava rarely turned up. She may live under their parents’ roof. Since she had moved back to Ashwell. Ava frequently

Another customer entered the store after they had been talking for approximately 15 more minutes. Emily’s break had ended, and it was a good time for Ella to leave. Ella stood. “I’ll be off then.” Em hugged her. “Thanks for coming to see me.” Emily had been busy with the ball coming up. Ella hoped they could squeeze in a movie night soon. Ella finished her shopping and made a quick stop at the nearby bakery for some bread to have with her soup. She made a large amount and decided to share some with her parents. Taking a large container from the cupboard, she filled it and then departed from the loft. After storing hers in the fridge. Mother did all the cooking at home now Ella had left home. Taking them some soup would give her a break. Ella didn’t cook every night. Sometimes it was just a case of taking a homemade precooked meal out of the freezer and heating it up. Grabbing a sandwich if she wasn’t that hungry. Choosing to walk, it only took 20 minutes on foot. She bumped into

Inside the ballroom of Blackwater Manor, Stephen and Ava accompanied Nick. Ava would soon be his friend’s wife. Nick had instantly taken a dislike to the woman. She was rude and self-centred. He had watched how she acted in the absence of Stephen. Marrying this woman would bring about some challenging experiences for his friend. Nick had arrived only yesterday. His intention was to keep a low profile in England for the upcoming weeks. His father was attempting to arrange a marriage between him and his ex sister-in-law. After his brother’s untimely death 8 months ago. The pressure had increased significantly recently, and stumbling upon a naked Sophia in his bed had been the last straw. Sophia was ambitious to be queen one day. After Nick’s brother had passed away, she had easily transferred her interest to him. He was worried she would do something that would tip his hand. Leave him no choice but to marry her or step down. Let the crown go to some cousin. His mother’s presence coul

Ella’s attention was caught by Ava and Stephen as they stood near the edge of the dance floor. She sensed her sister’s extreme anger, and Stephen was discreetly trying to calm her down. Ella had doubts about its effectiveness. It wasn’t just her who was looking towards them - others were, too.“I give that marriage a year at most.”Even though she felt sad by his statement, Ella believed he was likely correct. Stephen will go to great lengths to maintain their unity after marriage, but if Ava continues to embarrass him and his family. There is a possibility that he will have to reconsider.Everyone knew that the Blackwater’s upheld traditions in the community, which were old-fashioned. She knew how Stephen would feel about public scenes or even PDAs (public displays of affection). She was desperately wishing for the prenup to be watertight.“Really, all couples fight Nick. My parents have been together for a long time, but they fight. Rarely grant you.” Looking back at the other coupl

As they walked back to the manor, Nick led Ella to the side entrance so she could go to the ladies’ bathroom with no observers. She really needed to clean up.“Do you want me to wait here for you or meet you back in the ballroom?” Sliding an arm around her waist, pulling her in close.He had put his mask back in place and, like her, she could only see the lower half of his face. Yet, the sight she beheld during their rendezvous under the moonlight was breathtaking. His eyes were as dark as his hair. With a soft touch, Ella traced her hand along his sculpted jaw. She loved the sensation of his stubble grazing her fingers.“I think we both have been away too long. You go back. I’ll join you in a few minutes.” Leaning in, he kissed her hungrily. Not wanting to let her out of his sight even for a minute.“I’ll be waiting for you. I also think we need to talk before the night is over.” Giving her one last kiss before turning and heading down the stairs to the ballroom.Ella entered the bat