Chapter Text
" …and remember to introduce us right away!" claimed Lady Hara for the hundredth time. "We can't let the Matsuzakis be first!"
"I will, my dear Lady, I will, reassured Lord Hara," debonaire as always.
The good man had realized very soon after his marriage that under her mask of beauty and sweetness, his spouse was a creature made of the toughest and coldest steel. He had since long developed the habit to comply to her wishes, knowing far too well that opposing her would make his life infinitely more tedious.
"The carriage is waiting for us, girls," he addressed the two young women patiently listening to the older one's preaching. "You are ready, I guess, because I don't see what you could add to so much beauty! Really, the poor man stands no chance, you will snatch his affection at once," he supplied kindly.
Before any of the two could thank him for his biased complement and give an appropriate and modest denial, Lady Hara retorted coldly.
"Lord Hara, we all know Masako is the most handsome girl and a natural beauty, there is no need to flatter her uselessly. And don't inflate Mai's ego, that would be cruel to the poor girl."
"But it was totally sincere!" objected the man good-naturedly.
Masako sent an apologetic glance to Mai who simply smiled back serenely. She was used to being reminded that she had less beauty, wealth, grace and manners than her foster sister, so she had learned to turn a deaf ear to these comments. Moreover, she was so thrilled to attend the first ball of the season and to meet the new owner of Netherfield and his suite, that she was determined to simply wipe any displeasure on her mind to enjoy the evening in its fullest. Even more since exciting news had leaked about the newest addition in the neighborhood.
The man's name was Yasuhara, he was said to be in his early twenties and to be the lucky owner of a large income of six thousand pounds. According to the rumors, he was of nice disposition, civil and liked to dance. That fact alone placed him in the good graces of Mai and Masako, who were always eager to be provided with some sort of entertainment. And balls were the most prized distraction among the countryside gentry's activities.
In addition to his ideal character, Yasuhara had had the marvelous idea to bring two other single friends with him, along with his older sister. Could he be more perfect?
They soon learned that perfect, he was. Thanks to Lady Hara's persistence and single-mindedness, they had been introduced to the charming young man upon their arrival and, to the utmost satisfaction of the former, before Lady Matsuzaki could set her paws on him.
To say the girls were delighted would be an understatement. the man didn't disappoint in the least, living up to their expectations. He was not only open and civil but also really skilled at dancing. Masako had the pleasure to be invited immediately, and Mai's turn followed not too long after.
They chatted amiably and at he end of the dance, Mai was convinced that Yasuhara would be wonderful company to brighten up their dull days. He was obviously a cheerful, gentle and erudite person, and his slightly mischievous smile told her that he probably didn't lack humour nor liveliness.
His older sister, Madoka, was one of the same kind. She possessed gorgeous features, easy and unaffected manners and the most charming smile. The two siblings had blended among the locals with ease, and conquered the ball's hosts in the blink of an eye.
When the music came to as stop, Yasuhara escorted Mai back to her friends. Masako and Ayako, who were was speaking animatedly, stopped altogether to greet the couple.
"Thank you for this lovely time, miss Taniyama," he bowed.
"The pleasure was all mine", responded Mai sincerely, mirroring his gesture in response. "But I am afraid your dancing skills are putting mine to shame."
Ayako snickered discreetly at the veracity of the statement. Her friend loved dancing, and always did it with enthusiasm and energy, but her clumsiness somewhat prevented her to be completely graceful. Nevertheless, Mai had never lacked partners during balls, her sunny disposition and open-mindedness compensating her lack of balance.
"I beg to differ," politely stated Yasuhara with an amused smile. "I can assure you that you have nothing to be ashamed of, since I have had the misfortune to dance with many partners whose skills and conversation were infinitely less enjoyable than yours."
The young woman flashed him a smile, marveling at his ability to flatter her without denying the obvious truth.
Suddenly Yasuhara caught sight of one of his friends and motioned for him to come. A tall dark figure silently joined their group under the curious scrutiny of the women, while the lively young gentleman theatrically greeted the newcomer.
"My dear ladies, I shall introduce you to my invaluable friend, Mr. Lin."
Mr. Lin's stone face barely reacted when presented, seemingly annoyed by the ambient cheerfulness and lack of decorum. His attire was formal and elegant, and most probably very expensive, betraying his affiliation to more elegant circles than their simple countryside party.
"What a waste of a handsome face," whispered Ayako to Mai half-joking, half-desolated. "His frown ruins it beyond fixing!"
Mai could only acknowledge Ayako's statement. Taller and sturdier than Yasuhara, Lin possessed chiseled features and stunning grey eyes. But, unlike his friend, he harbored haughty manners and a disdainful scowl, which gave him a frightening look.
What a waste indeed!
After the formal introduction, said Lin bowed his heads stiffly and excused himself hurriedly. His presence had put a chill on the previous joyous atmosphere, and his leave was mostly felt like a relief by the ladies who exchanged meaningful glances: God help any woman sent out by her mother to pursue this man!
Mai's eyes followed Lin's tall frame retreating in a corner, wondering what circumstances could have brought close such a frigid man and the cheerful and friendly Yasuhara. What she saw puzzled her even more. Mr. Lin was now looking down on the people approaching him with an expression akin to contempt, obviously displeased to be part of the event. All he did was keep to himself, glaring coldly at the assistance through his silky black fringe. Even the overly brazen Lydia Bennett didn't dare to behave like her usual foolish self in his vicinity. That, on the other hand, thought Mai with a wry smile, had to be put on the man's credit. Lydia was mostly insufferable, and seeing her subdued by Lin's mere presence was oddly satisfying.
Without the intimidating man's gloominess the chatting soon resumed, and Yasuhara finally invited Masako for a second dance. The young lady accepted graciously, apparently unaffected by the marked preference and great honour he was doing her.
"Lady Hara is probably delighted at this instant," remarked Ayako, eyes trained on the swirling couple. "Masako is already the favorite it seems."
" And the preference is mutual, I can tell," nearly squealed Mai in delight. "Did you notice? Her cheeks had the faintest blush when she accepted his hand!"
"That is an excellent thing, Yasuhara would be a good trade for a partner if she manages to secure his affection. But," frowned the young woman, "she shouldn't display so little emotion. Men are vain creatures who like to be flattered, after all."
Mai shook her head in disagreement.
"Masako is simply behaving like her usual self. You know she is moderate in everything. That is a part of her charm!"
"I am perfectly aware of that fact. But the dear man certainly is not. She is entitled to let him know how welcome his attentions are. If not, he may come to lose interest."
That said, she left to join her mother who was claiming her loudly, leaving a pensive Mai behind.
The girl was slightly worried after hearing her friend's advice. But after a glance at the couple dancing in the middle of the room her doubts vanished. Masako's face was serene, as usual, but her eyes were gleaming in pleasure, and the satisfied look her partner harbored was telling Mai he was anything but disinterested in the young lady in front of him.
The young orphan smiled, sincerely happy for her foster sister. She was convinced that the collected and poised Masako would be a perfect match for the rather flamboyant and outgoing Yasuhara. Moreover his wealth would allow her to live more than comfortably. What more could she wish for her?
Wandering around with a light spring in her step, Mai grabbed a glass of wine and sipped some delicately, waiting for the end of the dance, secretly hoping she would be asked for the next. Slightly bored, she let her gaze wander around the room and came abruptly to a stop when she took notice of an unknown face.
"Stunning" was all Mai could think at this moment. The owner of the remarkably handsome features, clad in dark clothes enhancing the blue of his eyes, was surrounded by several women who were blatantly fawning over his good looks. The lad was smiling seductively at them, arrogantly sure of his charm.
At first entranced by his outer appearance, his silky jet-black hair and elegant outfit, Mai rapidly became disenchanted. His eyes, albeit fascinating and beautiful, were frighteningly cold and calculating. The young lady felt herself frowning at him in defiance. Pretense wasn't something she considered lightly and, in spite of his smiling lips, she suspected him to be anything but friendly. At that precise moment the man's head turned in her direction and their eyes met for a few seconds, leaving the young woman breathless and light-headed.
His gaze had surprised her in its intensity. It had been piercing, serious, assessing and somehow, challenging. It had felt like he had seen right through her, and had dared her to, to…to what? She realized in horror that he had caught her looking at him with a scowl, betraying her distrust. Had she offended him by staring at him in suspicion? She cringed inwardly. Of course she had! Why couldn't she simply smile and behave like a polite and collected lady? He had probably been aware of her wariness, she knew she was as difficult to read as an open book. But she couldn't shake the feeling away: he was trouble. Handsome trouble, to be honest, but trouble nonetheless.
With the aim to put some more distance between the strange man and her flustered self, she turned heels abruptly to join any acquaintance she could find. Alas, her misfortune was complete that night. The calm and self-assured retreat she had planned suddenly metamorphosed in a disaster when she bumped into Lin in her haste, her glass of wine sloshing onto his dark waistcoat.
Mai froze when she realized what she had done, unsure of how to react. Her clumsiness had lead to an offense that was beyond repair. She tentatively offered an apology, but the words died in her throat at the almost hateful look Lin shot her. Her buzzing mind prayed fervently that her foolishness wouldn't affect Yasuhara's views on Masako when he would learn about this incident. Lin was one of his most valuable friends, and she had no doubt about the disastrous impression she was leaving to him.
In addition to Mai's already abyssal despair, Madoka appeared out of nowhere, closely followed by a gentleman who was no one but the dreaded stranger. And he was smirking, blatantly taking pleasure in watching her drowning in misery. The cinnamon-eyed girl screeched inwardly, cursing her bad luck. The evening couldn't take a worse turn, could it?
Madoka apparently assessed the situation at first glance. The color of the waistcoat thankfully concealed the wet stain from the view of potential distant onlookers, but it was still very noticeable up close. Unexpectedly, Yasuhara's sister offered Mai salvation, handling the debacle with intelligence and sparing both parties' wounded pride. She opened her fan to shield Lin's waist from view, and said with perfect natural:
"The evening is most pleasant, is it not, Miss Taniyama?"
Mai was unable to utter a word, too confused and agitated to think properly. Her complexion was probably a strange mix of pallor and redness, and she felt not too far from collapsing from mortification and embarrassment. Madoka went on loudly enough for everyone to hear, unfazed by the lack of reply.
"But alas, I do feel a migraine coming. I regret it immensely, but I believe it would be safer for me to return to Netherfield to rest."
Then she turned to the tall wine-stained gentleman, smiling sweetly, unabashed.
"Would you mind escorting me, Mister Lin? I do feel a little faint."
Lin, to Mai's utmost astonishment, returned her smile warmly and graciously nodded, offering his arm. Leaving was the only acceptable option he had, considering the state of his dress, and Madoka, God bless her quick thinking, had just provided a plausible reason to do so. Mai sent a grateful look to the older woman who blinked back in understanding.
"Madoka, Lin, are you leaving yet?"
Yasuhara was coming their way, arm in arm with Masako. His sister, who had her back turned to them, turned her head slightly, still fanning herself in a very convincing manner.
"Yes, my dear brother, I feel a little faint and the gentleman here proposed to escort me back. But please don't leave on my account, Madoka added with a twinkle in her eyes, I would not dare to deprive you from such charming company."
Yasuhara grinned and was about to retort when he noticed the presence of the blue-eyed stranger, who had remained silent and partially hidden by Lin's huge frame.
"Ah, Shibuya, good thing you are here! I was in search for you! Let me introduce you to miss Masako Hara and miss Mai Taniyama…"
Before the formal introduction could be over, Mai, who was facing both Masako and the mysterious Shibuya, saw the former turn a ghastly shade of white when she set her eyes the latter's face. Yasuhara felt his escort falter and asked immediately, alarmed, if she was unwell. The young lady rapidly regained her senses, but her complexion still remained disturbingly pale.
"I just feel a little tired after all this dancing," she said with a faint smile. "I am sure some fresh air would be enough to help me feel better."
Attractive cold blue eyes were set on the dark-haired woman. To Mai's displeasure, that Shibuya didn't appeared fazed by Masako distress. If anything, he was scrutinizing her in a manner that awfully resembled cold interest.
"Of course!" exclaimed Yasuhara immediately, unaware of the odd reaction of his friend. "Miss Taniyama, would you mind helping me to bring miss Hara to some quieter place? Lin, I am sorry, but I will leave my sister in your care."
Mai didn't pay any further attention to the rest of the party, focusing on her friend's well-being. She was instantly by the dark-haired girl side, taking her arm to lead her near a window where she could have some cooler air, while Yasuhara was fetching a chair. She was worried about Masako's state, but also grateful for the distraction. She breathed much more easily now that she had put some distance between her, the -rightfully- furious Lin and the intriguing Shibuya.
"Do you feel better Masako?" asked Mai in concern after letting her seat with less grace than usual on a chair. "Maybe we should ask father to go back home…"
"Would you like me to advise your parents that you are unwell?" inquired Yasuhara as well.
"Please do not concern yourselves over me, I will be perfectly fine in a little while," shakily replied the young lady.
Indeed, after a few minutes Masako's face regained some colours, and, reassured that she wasn't on her death bed, Yasuhara reluctantly took his leave. Despite his worry, good manners didn't allow him to stay any longer, and he was expected to perform his social duties to the other guests. Mai stayed with her foster sister to keep her company and, now certain that she wasn't ill, to satisfy her nagging curiosity. She strongly suspected that her friend's state was somehow related to the appearance of the man named Shibuya. She broached the subject cautiously.
"Masako, I could not help but notice you were… uncomfortable when introduced to this Mr. Shibuya."
The dark-haired girl bristled imperceptibly, then fixed a particular point on the floor, seemingly absorbed in its contemplation.
"You are gravely mistaken, Mai. I was simply tired from the dancing."
Mai sighed softly. She wasn't naive enough to believe this lame excuse. Her instinct told her clearly that her friend was hiding something. Masako was skilled at hiding her emotions, but she was no match for her: after all these years spent together, Mai knew how to read her perfectly. The shock she had seen on her face was genuine, and it was clearly directed to the blue-eyed young man.
"Masako, I know what I saw. You were distressed just by looking at him."
"I assure you, I do not know this gentleman. And I was not distressed by his presence in the least. Please," she added in a rather desperate tone, do not press that matter further. "Maybe I should ask father to go back home, after all, I do feel exhausted."
Mai nodded silently and decided to let Masako of the hook for the time being. She was obviously upset, and Mai didn't want to push her any further. She went in search of Lord and Lady Hara to fulfill her foster sister's wish, repressing heavy sighs. How could an evening begin so lovely and then end in such a dreadful manner?
The ball had begun with promises of fun, light gossip and laughter. And what had happened instead? She had made a fool of herself, probably earning Lin's eternal resent in the process, offended that Shibuya before even knowing him, and her dear friend was refusing her her trust. On top of all that now they were leaving before she could have had her fair share of dancing!
Yes, the evening was definitively ending on an horrendous note. And for all that she knew, it was this Shibuya's entire fault.