Page 72 of Tangwystle
I narrowed my eyes at her.
She squirmed. Evidently, I wasn’t the only one in pain.
“What were you two doing before I left the kitchen?” I asked.
She bit her lip. “He’s going to find us both tonight. Spend some time with us alone. A-are you okay with that?”
It wasn’t uncommon for Baz to find us during the day. Sometimes he’d throw me down on his desk and lick me until I came. Other times I’d be dusting when I’d hear Gretel’s moans. There were no harsh feelings because it was a common enoughoccurrence. And usually Baz did it because he wanted us to either watch or listen in. A tantalizing tease to the other party.
So, no, I didn’t mind that Baz planned on finding us at separate times and show us a bit of pleasure. It only added to the magical night.
But I did not like being worked up to the edge.
“That’s a dirty trick,” I told Gretel.
Her shoulders relaxed, but she held herself in such a way that I knew she agreed.
We finished washing, the pair of us keeping to opposite ends of the bathtub like we might explode if we came into contact.
I’d never worn something so beautiful as the floor-length black gown I put on for that night. The material flowed, nipping my waist and highlighting my curves. I didn’t feel short and squat.
“Gretel,” I exclaimed when I saw her. The black material of her dress cupped her chest, and she stood tall in a pair of skinny heels.
She appeared almost bashful.
“Your hair,” I gasped.
She tipped her chin down letting me study the intricate chignon. She looked the picture of submission, and if we had time to incur Baz’s wrath, I might have been tempted.
Instead, she pulled out a silver mask, her face obscured by the delicate material. Holding her hands out, she twirled.
“You look stunning.” I tried to grab her hand.
“No kissing!” she said.
“I wasn’t.”
“I know that look on your face. And I’m already about to explode. As lovely as dancing sounds, I want this night to be over already. I need you both.”
I laughed. “Tonight? Tonight we’ll be so tired we’ll all fall into bed. Plus there will be so much that needs to be done to get the place back in order.”
Gretel sighed, her shoulders sagging. “Why must it always be work with you?”
I placed my mask over my face. It was a simple black mask, but for a second while wearing it and studying my dress in the mirror, I let myself pretend I was someone great.
Gretel leaned her chin on my shoulder. A moment ago, she hadn’t let me touch her, but she smiled softly. “I’m going to be wet all night, thinking about you.”
Gretel, even with her mask, would stick to the kitchen. I didn’t want to take any risks of someone noticing her appearance or asking questions. Most knew Blackwell Manor kept only one servant, and even with the party, it might draw attention.
I elbowed her, but she dodged while laughing. The sound carried me forward, a giddy excitement coursing over me.
twenty
Guests began arriving soonerthan expected. It was like everyone needed entry into Blackwell Manor that night.
Ever the planner, I was glad to have thought of extra food and drink. Though admittedly, while most were glad of the wine, it was the star-filled ballroom that inspired the most gasps.
I was happy for Gretel’s success, despite no one being able to know the truth of whose excellent decorating skills they admired.
