#Alcina x Donna

[alcinasw1neglass]

Broken Vessels

Alcinaswineglass

Summary:

During the mid-1950s, a chance encounter between a countess and a peculiar girl, brought together by a mutual friend, sets in motion a series of events that would forever alter the countess's life. This tale is one of love and hardship, as the two women navigate through the challenges that come their way. Will they find a way to overcome their struggles and emerge victorious? Only time will tell.

{𝘓𝘢𝘥𝘺 𝘋𝘪𝘮𝘪𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘤𝘶 𝘟 𝘓𝘢𝘥𝘺 𝘉𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘰 𝘍𝘢𝘯 𝘍𝘪𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯}

Notes:

If you enjoy this Fic, please leave likes and comments. I would love to hear your thoughts and feedback, I strongly believe this ship is heavily underrated. Both characters are strong lovers, and that’s why I believe they are perfect. They accentuate each other perfectly, and I just love them and I hope you will too! ❤️

Ao3 Link- https://archiveofourown.org/works/54159589/chapters/137132614#main

Chapter 1:

Hope for the hopeless

June 28th 1955

Lady Alcina Dimitrescu, the elegant and regal matriarch of the Dimitrescu family, was known for her extravagant, lavish parties. They were always talk of the town. As usual, she had spared no expense for her latest gathering, and the grand ballroom of her opulent home was decorated with the finest tapestries and ornate chandeliers. Today’s overly dramatic party was celebrating a milestone of her and her husband's ever-growing successful business.

Despite attending numerous events in the past, Alcina had a feeling that this party would be the absolute worst. Watching her husband gloat about a business that wasn’t his or the success that he shared with his wife. She welcomed her guests with a serene smile.

Taking a deep breath, Alcina reached for a glass of her finest wine, savoring the rich aroma and the smooth taste.

The scene was a vibrant and lively one, with everyone dressed in bright and beautiful colors, wearing stunning dresses. Amidst this crowd, she stood out in her ivory dress, with long sleeves and white gloves, and of course, her signature prodigious wide-brim hat decorated with lavish white flowers and feathers. As she looked around, she realized that almost everyone looked the same until her eyes fell upon a girl dressed entirely in black, with a mask covering half of her face. She couldn't help but roll her eyes at the sight of this oddly dressed girl.

She then proceeded to greet the men who were standing by her husband's side, smiling and laughing politely at their not-so-funny jokes. However, before she could even finish her pleasantries, a hand touched her shoulder, causing her to pivot around. She was surprised to see a mutual friend of hers, who then proceeded to drag her away from her husband towards a quieter part of the party.

“Wh-What are you doing? I was greeting my guests, you foolish woman…” She sneered, and her friend sniggered as she spoke, “I want you to meet someone…”

“I haven’t got the time. George wants me to make a damned speech.” She protests, “Selene, please…”

“No, Alcina, forget the pleasantries. You need to meet this person.”

Selene was one of Alcina’s oldest friends. She was a confident and assertive woman. Selene grabbed Alcina by the arm and pulled her away from her husband and his group of friends. Alcina, clearly annoyed, allowed herself to be dragged through the crowded room until they reached their destination - Lady Beneviento, a shy and introverted woman who had only attended the party at Selene's request.

"I want you to meet someone," Selene repeated, her voice tinged with excitement. "But please, be nice to her."

Alcina let out a scoff at Selene's request. "I am nice," she replied defensively.

Rolling her eyes in response, Selene retorted, "No, you're not. You're cold and distant. But I promise you'll love her."

With that, the two women maneuvered their way through the throngs of party-goers until they finally reached Lady Beneviento, who was standing quietly by the window.

Selene, being the idiot she was, pushed Alcina towards Donna and smiled mischievously. “Lady Beneviento, this is Lady Dimitrescu, the owner of the very wine you are drinking,”

Donna had faced a lot of tragedies in her life, including the loss of her sister and parents. Naturally, she had lost hope and given up on life. However, her friend Selene, who had been with her through thick and thin, decided to take her to an extravagant party, hoping to cheer her up.

Despite being an introverted person, Donna reluctantly agreed to come along. Upon arriving at the party, she found herself drawn to the window where she could escape from the loud music and the bustling crowd. Holding a glass of wine in her hand, she gazed outside, lost in her own thoughts.

Suddenly, she felt someone bump into her, causing her to startle. She turned around to see Selene standing behind her and was about to say something when she noticed a stranger standing right in front of her. Donna took a step back, confused and alarmed. She sent a worried glance towards Selene before stuttering, "Excuse me?”

Alcina was taken aback by the sudden appearance of the girl in front of her. Her eyebrows furrowed in surprise, and her body stiffened as if preparing for a confrontation. However, before she could react, Selene disappeared from her sight, leaving Lady Dimitrescu to turn her attention back to Lady Beneviento.

Clearing her throat, she spoke in a cold, calculated tone that seemed to echo through the room. Her words were chosen carefully, meant to instill fear in her target while still holding their attention. Lady Dimitrescu was well-known for her imposing presence and intimidating demeanor, and she used it to her advantage as she circled gracefully around the young girl.

As she moved, she studied the girl with a predatory gaze, making every step she took seem like a threat. The girl tried to keep her composure in the face of such a formidable opponent, but she couldn't help but feel a shiver run down her spine.

Lady Dimitrescu paused for a moment, taking a sip of her drink, and then deadpanned, "I didn't realize I was having a Masquerade, I would have brought a mask also." She pointed to her guests and added, "Now, why are you in the corner? The party is over there."

Donna shifted uneasily, feeling like a mouse caught in the claws of a lion. She knew Lady Dimitrescu was not one to be trifled with, and the last thing she wanted was to draw her ire. So, she mustered up her courage and replied, "The mask brings me comfort, and so does being alone. So if I may, I’ll just excuse myself.”

Alcina grabbed Donna’s forearm, her grip tightening with a sudden harshness that made Donna flinch. Alcina's face scrunched up into a scowl, her brows furrowed in anger or frustration. The tension between the two was palpable as Alcina spoke, her voice low and threatening. "I didn't see you..." she began, her words trailing off into an ominous silence that left Donna feeling uneasy and unsure of what would happen next, but then Alcina broke the silence once more. “When I greeted my guests. I stood at the door for an hour, and yet you escaped my notice. And how you stand out from the crowd”

Donna's eyes widened in shock as she felt a sudden tug on her arm. Instinctively, she yanked her arm back and took a step backward, putting some distance between herself and the person who had touched her. "D-Do not touch me... please," she said firmly, trying to keep her voice steady. She looked down at the ground for a moment, taking a deep breath, before looking back up at the person in front of her. "Perhaps you weren't paying attention," she said, her voice tinged with frustration. "I've been here since my friend dragged me here. I don't know what you want from me, lady Dimitrescu, but you need to show some respect and unhand me.”

Alcina is taken aback. She has never had anyone speak to her like that before, let alone order her around in her own home . Her eyes widen as she tries to process the situation. Feeling a surge of anger, she purses her lips and speaks with a growl, her voice low and menacing. “How dare you? Do you know who I am?” She asks before rolling her eyes. “I was paying attention,” she snarled, malice dripping from her voice. “However, I didn't see a ‘Beneviento’ on the guest list, which means I should have you escorted out of my home.”

Donna scoffed at the woman standing in front of her. She had recognized her at first, but now all she could see was a woman who seemed vexed because someone had said no to her. Donna crossed her arms, trying to act tough, but her trembling hands told a different story. She finally spoke up and said, ‘Then, by all means, lady Dimitrescu, escort me out. I would prefer to be at home.' Despite herself, Donna couldn't hide the fear in her voice. She felt like she had just made a big mistake and was now facing the consequences.

Alcina's sudden chuckle caught Donna's attention, causing her to pause in their conversation. Alcina looked towards the fireplace and cast a hopeful glance over her shoulder, silently urging Donna to follow her. Curious, Donna followed Alcina's lead and walked towards the fireplace, where she noticed Alcina's gaze was drawn upwards to the painting that hung above it. The painting depicted Alcina and her husband, captured in a moment of happiness and love, or so one would think. However, the harshness of his gaze and his hand firmly placed on Alcina’s shoulder would show otherwise... As Alcina stood there, gazing at the painting, She swallowed hard, suppressing the horrid words that had threatened to escape her lips moments before. "Hm... You have a bite to you, bravo..." Her voice trailed off, distant and contemplative, as she continued to stare intently at the painting. The flickering light from the fire danced across the canvas, casting shadows on Alcina's face and lending a solemn air to the room.

Donna let out a deep sigh and reluctantly trailed behind Alcina as the latter led the way toward the fireplace. As they reached their destination, Donna kept a slight distance from Alcina, standing a few feet away from her. The two of them came to a halt, facing the warm glow of the roaring fire, and a moment of silence ensued as they both stared into the flickering flames and risked a glance at the painting. "You're not happy, are you?" She mumbled, quiet enough just so that Alcina could hear her.

Alcina stood with her arms crossed. Her expression was one of disdain and contempt as she scoffed loudly, “well, you’re rather rude.” She then turned her head ever so slightly to catch a glimpse of Donna in her peripheral vision. "I didn't want to have a grand party," she said with a heavy sigh, her eyes betraying her exhaustion. "But George insisted on it. Of course, I had to be the one to organize it. He has absolutely no idea how to throw a proper party. It was just another excuse for him to gloat about his ever-growing business - a business that isn't even his. The man has no shame."

Alcina paused for a moment, her eyes flickering with an emotion that was hard to read. "I- I love my husband," She trailed off, lost in thought for a moment. Anyone who heard her words could tell she was lying through her teeth. The truth was that she despised the man and everything he stood for. But she couldn't bring herself to admit it, even to herself. So she put on a brave face and pretended like everything was fine, even though she knew it wasn't.

Donna patiently listened to Alcina as she ranted on about her life. Donna didn't interrupt her even once and waited until the end to share her thoughts. "I'm happy that I never had to go through the experience of getting married," Donna said. "I say this mostly because of my scar. It has scared everyone away from me, and I'm grateful that I can now live in peace in my home and focus on my work without having to worry about anyone bothering me.” She turned to Alcina. "I live on my own if you ever need quiet. Time to be away from your husband. You can always stay in the village with me. If your husband allows it.”

Alcina turned her whole body to face Donna, her piercing gaze fixed upon her. With a raised eyebrow, she spoke in a low, measured tone, "Not all of us are so fortunate, Miss Beneviento… However, he gains from me, and I gain from him." Her voice trailed off momentarily before she continued, "That would be delightful." Alcina's face broke into a genuine smile, but it was short-lived as she scoffed once more, "George is hardly ever home. He's only here when... he needs something… Or when we have guests, he goes on hunting trips and lots of business trips.”

Donna stood quietly as she listened to the woman of the house speak once again. "Well," the woman said, her voice laced with a hint of weariness, "now that that's been settled, I will excuse myself. I need to get home before the drunken men try to hit on me. It was a pleasure to meet you, Lady Dimitrescu.” She gave a small, knowing smile to Alcina, who stood nearby. Donna couldn't help but feel a twinge of sympathy for the woman - it was clear that she had dealt with this sort of thing before. As the woman turned to leave, Donna wondered how many other women in this town had to deal with the same dangers on a daily basis.

Alcina's expression changed to one of genuine sadness as she slowly nodded her head in acceptance. "We wouldn't want that, would we?" she said. “Will you write to me? You know my address." Her voice trailed off slightly as she spoke.

Donna felt a sudden rush of excitement as she heard Lady Dimitrescu's request for her to write to her. With a shy smile, Donna replied, "If you really want me to write to you, Lady Dimitrescu, then of course I will. We can schedule a date, and I'll make sure to have a letter ready for you by the end of the week."

Feeling emboldened by the moment, Donna decided to take a chance. She reached out and gently took Alcina's hand in her own, giving it a soft kiss before turning and walking away. As she walked, she couldn't help but feel a sense of nervous excitement coursing through her. She had no idea what the future held, but for now, she was content to bask in the glow of Lady Dimitrescu's attention.

As Alcina stood there, a smirk slowly crept onto her face in response to Donna's choice of words. "I look forward to it," she replied, her voice dripping with a sense of amusement. Just as Donna was about to turn away, Alcina felt her hand being grasped and lifted to her lips for a gentle kiss. As Donna's lips touched her skin, a faint blush appeared on Alcina's face, though she quickly composed herself. "Miss Beneviento...Stay, will you?" she called out, her voice calm and steady. “I- I have guest bedrooms. We could have tea in my gardens tomorrow.” She struggled to get her words out, progressively getting more flushed.

Donna came to a sudden halt and pivoted on her heel to face Lady Dimitrescu, "I'm sorry, Lady Dimitrescu," she began, her voice quivering slightly, "but I have no clothes to wear, and I have a lot of work to complete by tomorrow. Perhaps we can schedule a meeting for another time?" In an attempt to mask her mounting anxiety, Donna managed a small smile, hoping it would be enough to placate the imposing figure in front of her. Despite her best efforts, however, Donna was just one step away from a full-blown meltdown.

Alcina appeared to be overwhelmed with emotions as she gazed at Lady Beneviento, her face tinged with sadness as she gave her a small, melancholic smile. After a moment of silence, Alcina nodded in acknowledgment of their parting, and Donna turned around to walk away. Alcina followed behind her for a few steps before they separated, and she watched as Lady Beneviento disappeared from view. As Alcina made her way back to her husband, she stood to his right and planted a gentle kiss on his cheek. The atmosphere seemed to be charged with a sense of finality as the two women went their separate ways, leaving behind a lingering feeling of sadness and longing.

George's speech was slurred as he grabbed Alcina's wrist tightly, demanding an answer. "Where did you run off to?" he asked impatiently. Alcina's expression turned sour as she retorted, "I was with our guests, darling ," The tension between them was palpable, and it was clear that there was more to their exchange than just a simple question.

Alcina was standing next to her husband and felt his tight grip on her hand. She managed to free herself, and with a fake smile on her face, she grabbed a glass of wine from the silver platter. Holding the glass up high, she proposed a toast. "Here's to our ever-growing business and to my loving husband.”

Everyone cheered as they raised their glasses, clinking them together in celebration. The music grew louder, and people started dancing, twirling around the room in a joyful frenzy. The night ended on a high note, and everyone left with smiles on their faces, looking forward to the next celebration. Bidding her guests goodbye, she sighed, relieved the party was now over. However, she couldn’t get Lady Beneviento out of her head.

As the night grew darker, the lady couldn't shake off the image of Lady Beneviento from her mind. She made her way back to her chambers, her feet aching from the long night, her mind heavy with thoughts. As soon as she entered her room, she let out a sigh of relief, and her staff rushed to help her.

They quickly unlaced her dress while she stood there, feeling the cool air on her skin. Finally, they undid her corset, slowly and carefully, allowing her to breathe freely again. With her body finally feeling relaxed, she got herself ready for bed, her mind still preoccupied with the mysterious Lady Beneviento.

⇠ ༒ ⇢

As the night progressed, Selene, the carefree soul, couldn't resist wandering off and giving Alcina and Donna some time alone. Selene had a little too much to drink, and it was evident in her slurred speech. She struggled to put her words together, but Donna patiently listened, knowing that Selene meant well. Despite her slightly intoxicated state, Selene's presence brought a sense of joy and excitement, which was hard to ignore. “So… ‘ow was it? Do you ‘ike ‘er?”

“I suggest that we should start by finding an alternative beverage for you to drink apart from wine. However, I suppose she is ok. not someone I would see myself spending time with. She’s… A snob, to put it lightly.” Donna, with a concerned expression on her face, was keeping a vigilant eye on Selene. carefully observing her every move, ensuring that she didn't accidentally trip or fall on the uneven terrain they were traversing. Donna's attention was completely focused on Selene.

Selene scoffed, "Pff, I'm fine... I'm just a ‘ittle tipsy." Despite her attempts to defend herself, she failed miserably and burst out laughing. "You know, she may seem intimidating, but she's all bark and no bite. She may be a bit of a snob, but deep down, she's really just a big old teddy bear. She gets so badly treated by that bastard of a man…. I don’t know why she stays.”

As Selene stumbled on air for the second time, Donna rolled her eyes in frustration. "Selene, you've nearly fallen twice, on air at that," she said, her tone laced with concern. She then let out a deep sigh and shook her head. "Sadly, there is nothing we can do about her husband. Men like that deserve the worst hell you could imagine," she added, her voice firm and resolute. She then reached out and used her hand to help steady her friend.

“That’s because the air hates me… I am perfectly fine, where is our car? I need a snack.” As Donna made a witty comment, she couldn't help but let out a light chuckle. She then pushed herself away from Donna and crossed her arms as she continued to laugh softly. “Honestly, he’s an adulterous little snake. It’s made her cold.. she used to be so warm, you know I’ve known her for 15 years, and it’s when she met him that she changed…. I- Ah, our car!! DRIVERR!!” She calls, waving her hand like an idiot.

Donna couldn't help but snort as she listened to her friend Selene go on a drunken spiral, her words slurring and her movements unsteady. However, when Selene waved her hand around like an idiot and started yelling, Donna flinched and quickly grabbed her friend's hand. "He can see us, Selene," she whispered urgently. "Please don't cause any more ruckus." Donna knew that Selene's behavior could attract unwanted attention, and she didn't want to get into any trouble.

As the car approached them, she stumbled and almost fell into the car. Her face turned pale as she struggled to regain her balance. After managing to get inside the car, she felt a sudden dizziness, "Is the car spinning? Or is it just me?" Her voice trembled.

As Donna got into the car, she couldn't help but scowl at the strong smell of alcohol. Her voice was laced with worry as she turned to Selene, "You're drunk. How much wine did you drink?" Her concern was palpable as she spoke, and it was clear that she was genuinely worried about the safety of both the driver and herself.

“I ‘ave only drunk a ‘ittle. I am a grown woman.” Selene protested. The journey back to Donna's estate was a long and tiring one, with Selene feeling exhausted and drained. Despite her best efforts to stay awake, she eventually succumbed to her drunken state and fell into a deep slumber, her head resting against the window in a very undignified position.

Meanwhile, Donna was lost in thought, her mind preoccupied with Lady Dimitrescu. She couldn't help but wonder if there was more to the imposing woman than met the eye. Perhaps, deep down, there was a gentle swan lurking beneath the cold, harsh walls that Lady Dimitrescu had built around her heart.

Donna's car jerked to a sudden stop, causing her to peer out of the window and let out a sigh of relief. She had finally arrived back at her estate. Turning to her friend Selene, who had dozed off during the ride, Donna tapped her on the shoulder to wake her. As they stepped out of the car, Donna took a deep breath of the fresh air. The city air always made her feel suffocated, but since Lady Dimitrescu's estate was located in a somewhat rural area, the air was much cleaner and fresher.

As they walked down the path towards the estate, Selene trailing behind her, Donna opened the door and stepped inside, removing her coat. She watched as Selene stumbled into her home, her movements unsteady and her speech slurred. ‘Not drunk, she says.’ Donna thought to herself.

Rolling her eyes, Donna rushed over to Selene and helped her up, guiding her to a nearby sofa. She couldn't help but feel frustrated with her friend's recklessness, especially since she had promised not to drink too much. As Selene lay unconscious on the sofa, Donna couldn't help but wonder how she was going to deal with the aftermath of this latest escapade

⇠ ༒ ⇢

July 1st 1955

“ Dearest,

Would you possibly be free to meet me for tea this evening? There is a quaint little restaurant down near the river.

La Fonte, Mainstreet.

6:30 Pm.

I understand if you cannot,

A Dimitrescu”

Alcina had every intention of being on time, but her husband had other plans. He had a lot to say about her meeting with the young Beneviento girl, and despite her protests, he insisted on delaying her. Eventually, she managed to break free from his grasp and made her way to the restaurant.

As she walked in, a sense of calm washed over her, and a serene smile graced her face. Her heart fluttered as she caught a glimpse of Donna sitting at a table in the corner. She made her way over to her, apologizing for her tardiness. “Sorry, I'm late… George was being difficult .”

The waiter approached them with a friendly smile and offered to take their drink order. Alcina nodded, placing her purse down. "I'll have the second-best bottle of wine on your menu," she said.

Donna had initially been hesitant about going out but eventually decided to give it a try. She put on some comfortable clothes and wore the same mask she wore at Alcina's party. As she arrived at the venue, she scanned the area and quickly found a good spot to sit. Smiling slightly as she saw Alcina walking towards her and taking a seat in front of her.

"T-that’s ok," Donna reassured. "I haven't been here for long either." She waved her hand nonchalantly and turned her attention to the menu. She carefully browsed through the options and eventually placed her order, making sure to avoid any alcoholic drinks. She wanted to stay alert and focused throughout the night and not let anything dull her senses.

“Well, I'm relieved that you showed. I was worried you wouldn’t after how I… Treated you the other night. I- I’m sorry, I was horrible. But the stress of everything got the better of me.” With a sad smile on her face, she took a deep breath and gathered the courage to speak up again. Her voice carried a hint of impatience as she said, "Are we ready to order food? I'm absolutely famished. I do hope Italian." She could feel her stomach growling audibly.

As if on cue, the waiter arrived with their drinks in hand. However, she raised a hand to stop him as he poured the wine, indicating that she'd prefer to handle it herself. "Leave the bottle. I'll pour my own wine," she said firmly, making sure that the waiter understood her request. Her tone was polite yet assertive, conveying her confidence in handling the wine.

Donna sat comfortably in her chair, sipping on her water, as she observed Alcina's behavior with a hint of interest. Alcina, a known wine connoisseur, was giving the waiter a hard time as she insisted on pouring her own wine. Donna couldn't help but feel a bit sympathetic towards the poor man who seemed to be struggling to meet Alcina's demands. Alcina finally settled down and turned towards Donna, giving her a small smile. “You were intoxicated. You needn't worry. But yes, I am ready to order…”

The waiter, dressed in his crisp uniform, stood at attention near the table as he patiently waited for the two ladies to make their order. Donna, sitting gracefully with a serene expression on her face, spoke up first. Her voice was soft and gentle as she said, "I would like to have the ossobuco with the freshly baked focaccia bread, please." The waiter nodded and noted down her order, ready to take the other lady's order.

Alcina's voice was laced with frustration as she spoke, "I wasn't… That's why I'm apologizing." Her tone was sharp, but it softened a bit as she continued, "I'll have the same." The waiter nodded and assured them both that it would be served soon before walking away. As the waiter left, Alcina leaned forward in her chair, placing her chin in her hands. "So, 'Beneviento'," she began, her tone curious, "I’ll assume you're originally from Italy?”

Donna leaned back in her seat, letting out a small sigh as she crossed one leg over the other. After a moment of silence, she finally responded to the question, her voice calm and measured. “I am not," she said. "But my parents were. They moved here just before I was born." She took a sip of her drink, her eyes fixed on Alcina. "What about you?" she asked, raising an eyebrow. "Are you originally from this area?”

Alcina let out a soft hum in response, indicating that she was listening to what was being said. After a brief moment of silence, she let out a deep sigh as if she was about to reveal something important.

Alcina's voice was filled with disappointment as she replied, "Yes, unfortunately. I was born and raised in this city. But if you thought my family was snobbish before, you'll be absolutely shocked now." Despite her somber tone, Alcina let out a small chuckle, perhaps trying to lift the mood. She fell silent for a moment, lost in thought, until Donna's voice brought her back to reality.

Donna teased Lady Dimitrescu in a playful manner, "You have my interest piqued, Lady Dimitrescu. What secret are you about to reveal? Does your family own a grand castle?" In response, Alcina let out a deep sigh and slowly nodded her head. Her expression was a mixture of sadness and nostalgia, suggesting that she was lost in thought.

"Not exactly, Lady Beneviento," Alcina replied. "I remember my father telling me stories about his ancestral home. It was a grand castle that overlooked a small village. My mother used to describe it as a grand estate surrounded by lush greenery and blooming gardens." She paused for a moment, lost in thought, before continuing.

"Your surname, Dimitrescu," Donna interjected. "Is there any relation to Caesar Dimitrescu? After my sister passed away, we had a family who lived in the castle. They were the founding family amongst the other lords." Alcina cut her off, a hint of annoyance in her voice.

"I have no information about my family history," she explained. "My father never spoke of them. I know that I am of noble descent, but there could be many Dimitrescu lines. However, maybe now that my father is gone, I should try to find out more about my family history.”

As she spoke, Alcina's expression turned serious and somber as she recollected the memory of her mother. She revealed that her mother was French and a lovely woman, but unfortunately, she had passed away when Alcina was just a teenager. Her voice carried a hint of sadness as she spoke about her mother and the memories they shared.

Alcina was about to share more when their waiter arrived with their food, interrupting her train of thought. Despite the interruption, Alcina couldn't help but smile at the sight of the delicious food before her. “Bring me a bottle of my own wine. This swill is not adequate enough.”

As the waiter approached the table, he seemed a bit nervous and nodded his head anxiously before walking off. She picked up her knife and fork, ready to enjoy her meal. "Bon appétit," she said with a smile.

Donna gazed at Alcina with a perplexed expression. Her brows furrowed with a hint of confusion before she exhaled audibly. She realized that the restaurant they were currently dining in sells Alcina's wine, and this made her curious. "Wait a minute, they actually sell your wine here?" she asked Alcina, her voice laced with curiosity. "Why didn't you just order that instead?"

Alcina nodded and replied in affirmation, "Yes, they do sell my wine, and it's by far the best they have." At that moment, Donna couldn't help but chuckle, but she stopped short when Alcina continued speaking. "If I ordered my own wine at a restaurant, it would come off as very pretentious," Alcina said, her tone laced with a hint of self-deprecation. "However, this swill that they're serving is not to my taste, so I suppose I am being pretentious after all.”

Donna's voice was barely above a whisper as she replied, "I understand." Her eyes flickered with concern as she gazed at Lady Dimitrescu, trying to gauge her mood. After a moment's hesitation, she asked, "How was your day, Lady Dimitrescu? You seem a bit preoccupied."

Lady Dimitrescu's expression softened at Donna's gentle tone. "I have had an eventful day, to say the least," she replied, her voice tinged with weariness. "But I would rather not burden you with the details. How was your day, Lady Beneviento? Hopefully, it was more peaceful than mine."

A small smile tugged at Donna's lips as she recalled the day's events. "Well, I finished a very large commission for a client this morning," she said, her eyes sparkling with pride. "It was quite challenging but also very satisfying to see it all come together. After that, I spent some time reading in my garden, enjoying the sunshine and the flowers. And now, here I am with you, Lady Dimitrescu." She gave the woman a warm smile, hoping to lift her spirits.

Alcina sat upright, taking a deep breath and delicately picking at the food before her. As she chewed, she studied Donna's face with a discerning eye. After a moment, she spoke. "Hmm... A much more peaceful day than mine. I envy you, lady Beneviento.” She poured herself a glass of wine, savoring the flavor before continuing. "I'm curious to know more about you, Lady Beneviento?"

Donna paused mid-bite and wiped her mouth with a napkin before responding. "T-there isn't much to tell, I'm afraid. Most of my free time is spent either reading or working on commissions." She took a sip of water before continuing, "As for friends, I have a small circle. My closest friend is Selene, and then one other person.” She trailed off, not offering any further details.

Alcina sat gracefully with the glass of wine in her hand and took a sip, her eyes fixed on Lady Beneviento. Tilting her head, she asked in a soft voice, "Do you have an affinity for art, music, literature, or perhaps something else entirely?" Her eyes glimmered with curiosity and she leaned in slightly, a small smile playing on her lips. "I am intrigued to know what piques your interest, Lady Beneviento. What kind of things do you enjoy?" She finished her glass of wine and set it down on the table, waiting patiently for Lady Beneviento's response.

“I have always had a passion for art, especially creating my own dolls. I consider myself a bit of a seamstress, too, as I make dresses and sell them for a decent amount. It's always been a source of pride and fulfillment for me.” With a heavy heart, she lets out a deep and sorrowful sigh, her expression a mixture of sadness and melancholy. Her eyes seem to gaze off into the distance, lost in thought as if she is grappling with some deep-seated emotional turmoil. “However, lately, I find myself struggling to feel any joy from these activities. It's been difficult to find happiness since my family passed away. They were my biggest supporters and inspiration, and now that they're gone, it feels like a part of me is missing.”

“My condolences. Do you mind me asking how they died?” Her tone was soft, and she placed her gloved hand on top of Donna’s for support. Smiling at her.

“My older sister… C-Claudia, she had a… Disease that she was born with, s-she was 15 when she succumbed to the illness. I was only 13, and my parents couldn’t handle her death… They prayed every night that the black god would return her to us, but it never did, so one day, they decided to go behind our estate and… They jumped off the edge of the waterfall. I was going to follow them, but I just couldn’t… I was too weak.” Donna looked down at her plate.. talk of her family made her lose her appetite.

“Forgive me, but you weren’t the weak one. They left their 13-year-old daughter alone. That is weakness.” s he spoke in a hushed tone, conveying her disappointment in the parents' actions. Her face seemed to be filled with a tinge of sadness as she observed Donna's body language, which had become tense. Wanting to change the mood of the conversation to something more cheerful, Alcina decided to ask a question. "What do you usually do on Sundays, dear?" she inquired with a warm smile, hoping to redirect the focus away from the previous topic.

"I typically spend most of my time working on commissions from my studio. I don't really get to go out and explore much, unfortunately. May I ask why you're asking about my daily routine, Lady Dimitrescu?" As Donna spoke, her body language became more relaxed, indicating that she was glad to have diverted the conversation away from her family.

“I mostly ask as my husband is almost never home at the weekends, so perhaps you could come to stay with me?” Lady Dimitrescu, the towering and enigmatic figure of Castle Dimitrescu, was known for her unwavering confidence and commanding presence. She had learned to wear a strong mask that concealed any vulnerabilities or doubts whenever she was away from the comforts of her chambers. However, despite her usual poise, her mask was now cracking, revealing a hint of nervousness that she had never shown before. She was hesitating to ask a question, one that she had asked many times before without any hesitation. The reason behind her uncharacteristic anxiety was unknown, and it was a rare sight to see the Lady in such a state.

As the night progressed, Alcina was starting to feel the effects of the bottle of wine she had to herself. Her words slurred as she spoke, but her laughter was still as infectious as ever. The conversations around the table were at an all-time high, and Alcina lifted an unsteady hand up for the waiter to come over, asking for the bill. Donna had insisted that she would pay her half of the bill, but Alcina refused her offer, saying, "It is no money from my pocket, please... Let me pay."

Nodding her head, Donna leaned back in her seat, feeling a little embarrassed. She didn't know what to do now. Alcina raised her brow before she stood up, stretching her back as she adjusted her hat. "Well, Lady Beneviento, I had a fabulous evening... We must do this again. I'll show you out." And she did so, waiting for Donna's carriage. Before she could get into the carriage, Alcina kissed Donna's cheek, smiling down at her. "Till we meet again, Lady Beneviento." Donna watched as Alcina's carriage disappeared into the night, feeling grateful for the wonderful evening they had shared together.

⇠ ༒ ⇢

July 22nd 1955

Lady Beneviento had been eagerly waiting to hear from the countess for weeks. One stormy morning, she sat in her kitchen staring out of the window, watching the raindrops fall down one by one and trying to keep herself occupied. But as time ticked by, her anxiety began to mount, and she couldn't help but feel desperate and sad. She had a pen and paper before her, and she started contemplating writing a letter to the countess, who seemed to be ignoring her.

With a heavy heart, she started writing, hoping that this letter would finally give her the answers she deserved.

“ Lady Dimitrescu,

I do hope this letter finds you well, I am writing to you because I deserve clarification. I have not heard from you in nearly three weeks, and I would like to know why? I care deeply about you, however the disrespect is unfathomable if you do not wish to see me do say so.

Yours,

Donna Beneviento ”

Donna had just finished writing a letter to Lady Dimitrescu, but the moment she put down her pen, she was hit with a sudden wave of regret. She couldn't help but worry that the letter might be taken the wrong way, and that Lady Dimitrescu might see her as being needy or desperate.

She was well aware of Lady Dimitrescu's high status and importance, and she didn't want to do anything that could potentially damage their relationship. But despite her reservations, she couldn't shake off the strange feeling in her stomach. She knew that something wasn't quite right, but she couldn't quite put her finger on what it was.

Perhaps Lady Dimitrescu had simply decided that their time together was over, or maybe there was some other reason for her silence. Donna couldn't help but wonder what the future held for her and Lady Dimitrescu. Would they remain close, or would their relationship slowly fade away? These questions weighed heavily on Lady Beneviento's mind, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of unease.

Donna let out a deep sigh of frustration as she stood up from her seat and made her way to the kitchen. She headed straight to the liquor cabinet, her eyes scanning the rows of bottles before finally settling on a bottle of whiskey. Turning around, she scoffed at the lifeless doll seated on the nearby shelf. "Do not look at me like that," she muttered as she reached for a small glass and poured herself a generous amount of the amber liquid.

As she took a sip of the whiskey, Donna's mind was filled with thoughts of the person who had caused her so much hurt. "I am hurt, Angie," she said to the doll, her voice filled with sadness. "I have never gotten this close to someone so quickly, and now she ignores me. What should I do?"

She waited for a response, hoping that the doll would somehow give her the guidance she needed. However, as expected, there was no answer from the dormant toy. Donna was left alone with her thoughts and the bitter taste of whiskey on her tongue, unsure of what to do next.

Donna had been eagerly anticipating Alcina's letters for the past few days. She had been keeping a close eye on her mailbox, hoping to see the familiar handwriting on the envelopes. However, as the days passed, there were no signs of any letters from Alcina. This made Donna feel frustrated and disappointed.

Unable to contain her emotions, Donna stormed off to her workshop. She knew that she could always count on her work to help her deal with her unpleasant thoughts and emotions. As she got to her workshop, she took a deep breath and looked around the room. It was filled with tools, materials, and half-finished projects. She picked up a nearby tool and began to work on a project, letting the familiar feeling of working with her hands soothe her mind.

Donna was sitting at her desk, completely immersed in her work on a doll commission, when she suddenly heard a woman's voice behind her. Startled, she jumped up in surprise, not having noticed anyone entering the room.

“Donna? It smells like a tavern in here… Are you ok?” The woman's voice was familiar, but Donna couldn't immediately place it.

“Selene!! W-what are you doing here? How did you get in?” Donna asked, still trying to gather her wits.

Selene shot her a look of disapproval. “The front door was wide open. And I haven’t heard from you or Lady Dimitrescu in weeks. I thought she’d be here with you. Clearly I was mistaken.” She looked around the room, taking in the mess of doll parts and fabric strewn about.

Donna felt a pang of guilt at Selene's words. She had been so absorbed in her work that she hadn't noticed the door, let alone heard someone enter. She quickly gathered herself and turned to face Selene, grateful for the unexpected visit.

Donna looked worried as she spoke to Selene, "I haven't heard from her either. She clearly doesn't wish to speak to me. I have tried reaching out to her several times, but she hasn't responded."

Selene gave Donna a confused look before she spoke again, "That can't be true, she was singing your praise at tea with the others a few weeks ago. Are you sure something else isn't bothering her?"

"Minds can change in a couple of days, Selene. I care not for the countess," replied Donna, her voice tinged with bitterness.

Selene raised her brow and scoffed, "Is that why your house smells like whiskey? You do care for her. Come back to the city with me, I am worried about her. It's unlike her to go this silent.”

Donna rose from her seat, her movements deliberate and her gaze fixed on Selene. As she made her way towards the exit of the workshop, she turned around and raised a single eyebrow in Selene's direction. "No," she said firmly, her voice laced with a hint of annoyance. "I will not go running to her. If she wants to speak with me, she can come to me herself." Her tone was clear and resolute, leaving no room for argument or negotiation.

Selene furrowed her brows, a clear sign of frustration etched on her face as she made her way towards the door. With a tinge of anger in her voice, she spoke, "I'll be in the village until Thursday. I’m staying with a friend in the village square. Should you change your mind, come and see me.”

As Selene made her exit, the heavy wooden door closed with a slight slam, leaving Donna all by herself in the room. The silence that filled the space amplified the thoughts racing through her mind. With her mind clouded with doubts, Donna sat there, lost in thought, hoping to find some clarity. Had Alcina really been neglecting everyone?

⇠ ༒ ⇢

Standing tall at the drawbridge that led to Lady Beneviento's estate, Lady Dimitrescu gazed into the distance with a hint of reluctance. It had been a while since she had last laid eyes on Lady Beneviento, and the anticipation of their impending reunion was palpable. The sun was setting on the horizon, casting an orange glow across the sky and painting the surrounding landscape in a warm, golden hue.

Lady Dimitrescu took a deep breath, feeling the crisp evening air fill her lungs, as she prepared to cross the drawbridge and enter Lady Beneviento's domain. As she stood there, deep in thought, a sudden hand on her shoulder startled her. She turned around to see a kind looking man, probably in his mid sixties, wearing a pair of well-worn gardening clothes. He flashed her a warm smile and asked, "Hello, miss... Can I help you?"

She hesitated for a moment before replying, "Not particularly, I'm looking for a friend." Her tone was devoid of any warmth or emotion, it was measured and deliberate.

The man nodded thoughtfully and said, "Ah, I see. Well, Lady Beneviento likes to spend her evenings in the garden, watching the sunset. If you'd like, I could take you around the back and show you the way.”

As they walked down the path leading to the house, the man tried to engage her in conversation. However, the countess seemed preoccupied and uninterested in small talk. Eventually, they arrived at the back of the house, and Alcina gestured for the man to leave "I can go on from here." The man nodded, acknowledging her request, before turning and walking away. The countess watched him go until he was out of sight before continuing on her way.

As Lady Dimitrescu made her way closer to the garden, she could hear the gentle and soothing sound of a waterfall in the distance. She walked towards an old and rusted gate, which she pushed open with ease, and stepped inside. As she walked through the gate her dress snagged on the old iron bar, mentally cursing herself for ruining one of her best dresses. But her thoughts were soon interrupted when she spotted Lady Beneviento seated on a soft blanket under a tree, overlooking the beautiful scenery.

Clearing her throat to announce her presence, Lady Dimitrescu spoke gently, "Hello, Lady Beneviento." Donna snapped her head to the voice, looking surprised and slightly panicked as she stood up. Her voice trembled as she spoke, "L-lady Dimitrescu… I- What are you doing here?”

Donna was taken aback when Lady Dimitrescu suddenly appeared in front of her after a long absence. "I wanted to apologise for my...disappearance. I have been rather busy ," Lady Dimitrescu said calmly, but Donna could sense something else in her words. Was it exhaustion? Regret? Donna couldn't quite put her finger on it.

Feeling a bit frustrated, Donna couldn't help but express her disappointment. "A letter would have been nice, Lady Dimitrescu," she said with a slight edge to her voice.

However, instead of reacting defensively, Lady Dimitrescu stepped closer to Donna with a sad look on her face. "Alcina," she said softly.

Donna was confused and didn't understand what Lady Dimitrescu meant. "Pardon me?" she asked.

With a heavy sigh, Lady Dimitrescu repeated herself. "Call me Alcina. We are past formalities." Alcina what a beautiful name, fitting for such a beautiful woman Donna thought as she nodded “Alcina.” Donna whispered to herself, "Why did you disappear?" she muttered, her voice barely above a whisper. "I thought..." Her words trailed off as she struggled to find the right words to express her feelings.

“Like I said, I was indisposed. I had work that needed my urgent attention, and George returned home…” Alcina had been hiding her struggles from Donna, pretending that everything was alright, however her recent episode had taken her completely by surprise. During the physician’s visit, she noticed that he wasn't his usual cheery self, which frightened her. She didn't want to admit it, but the thought of her illness getting worse scared her to the bone. Despite this, she found solace in her interactions with the young woman. She appreciated the fact that Donna treated her as a person and not just a terminally ill patient. Although it's only because Donna didn't know about her condition, it was refreshing all the same.

Donna's voice was filled with a hint of disappointment as she spoke, "I still would have appreciated a letter, lady Dimi-Alcina." She paused for a moment, then continued in a softer tone, "However, you're here now." Donna patted the space on the blanket beside her, inviting Alcina to take a seat. Looking up at her with pleading eyes, Donna silently conveyed her desire for Alcina's company and comfort.

Alcina took a seat, her movements somewhat uncomfortable as she shifted her skirt to one side. After a brief moment of silence, she spoke softly, attempting to ease the tension that seemed to have enveloped the two women. "I must say, your garden is beautiful," she said, her eyes scanning the lush surroundings. "The roses, in particular, are just exquisite. And the scenery is most favorable…”

Donna sat, gazing out into the sunset. The sound of the nearby waterfall echoed in the distance, a soothing melody to her ears. Before she turned to face Alcina speaking in a distant tone, "Yes, I am lucky… I am the only one in the village with the view of the waterfall… And my garden is my pride, it makes me feel somehow kind." As she spoke, she placed her delicate porcelain hand on Alcina's gloved hand. "I missed you," she said softly, her eyes full of concern.

Alcina sat still, her face contorted with the emotions that she had buried deep inside for far too long. She had always been a strong and independent woman, and showing weakness was never part of that image she wanted to portray. However, the burden she carried was becoming too much to bear. She wanted to tell Donna everything, to let her in, to share her pain, but she just couldn't bring herself to do it.

With a bob in her throat, Alcina shook her head, trying to hide the pain that was welling up inside her. "I am here, and I will not leave," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

Donna could see the pain etched on Alcina's face, and it broke her heart. She knew that something was wrong, but Alcina had always been so guarded that she didn't know how to approach the topic. But she had to try.

Taking Alcina's face into her hands, Donna guided her to look at her. "I worried about you, because I care," she whispered. "Whatever plagues you, let it also be my worry."

Alcina was caught off guard by Donna's unexpected act of kindness. For a fleeting moment, she felt a sense of vulnerability, an emotion that she rarely allowed herself to experience. As she looked at lady Beneviento, she gathered the courage to confide in her. "I- was..." she started to say before cutting herself off. For a brief moment, she hesitated before continuing with a lie, "George and I had a fight, but it's nothing to worry about.”

As Alcina and Donna sat together in quietness, Donna noticed that there was something different about Lady Dimitrescu. Although she exuded regality and power, there was a softness to her that only a few keen observers could detect. Underneath her composed exterior, there was a rich array of emotions that she kept well-concealed. Suddenly, Alcina reached into her purse and pulled out a sterling silver case, from which she extracted a cigarette and placed it between her lips. She then offered one to Donna, “N-no thank you, I- don’t smoke,” with a grimace, she shook her head, and Alcina nodded before lighting her cigarette and taking a few deep drags, exhaling the smoke calmly. "It helps ground my emotions," she explained as she continued to smoke.

Alcina let out a wistful sigh as she began to reminisce about her teenage years. "When I was a teenager," she began, "I used to sneak away and smoke my grandfather's cigarettes in secret. It was my little act of rebellion, you could say." She paused for a moment before continuing with a hint of amusement in her voice, "I remember once getting a butler fired because of my smoking habit. He always seemed so surprised whenever he went to smoke and found a handful of cigarettes missing. He used to count every single one he had, so I wasn't the most careful smoker."

Alcina then went on to explain that she didn't smoke very often, only when her emotions got the better of her. Interestingly, her parents hadn't protested against her smoking, as long as she kept up appearances. "Sitting on the grass in a dress was considered a much more offensive crime," she remarked with a smile.

Donna sat looking out at the setting sun. She felt a sense of calm and serenity wash over her, despite the memories that haunted her. “My parents forbid smoking, and swimming… Being as we live on the edge of the waterfall, my sister before she died used to be rather dangerous, always wanting to go down to the lower cliffs and jump into the river. I would always get ‘Donna, do not go to the water, the water is dangerous…’ I never understood why, but I never argued.”

As she looked out at the sun setting over the horizon, she felt a lump form in her throat. Her sister was gone now, and she missed her terribly. She wasn't sure why she was telling all of this to Alcina, as they both watched the sunset, but she couldn't seem to stop herself.

"Donna is a very lovely name," Alcina said softly, breaking the silence that had settled between them.

Donna nodded, her lip trembling. "Uh- y-yes. It means 'Mistress' in classic Italian," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

“It’s strange… I feel as though I can talk freely with you, like nothing could ever go wrong when I’m near you. I usually am much more hidden, it’s like I want to tell you about things that I have never told anyone before. Most people pity me, but you just listened, thank you” Donna stated, holding Alcina’s hand. Alcina had tensed once again, how could she be so selfish when the girl she barely knew just opened up to her… Hiding her illness was cruel, yet she couldn’t bring herself to tell her.

Donna and Alcina had been talking for hours, and as the sun began to set behind the mountains, Alcina sighed. “I really must be leaving, the drive back will be horrendous in the dark. It seems we lost track of time, all I wanted to do was apologise for my disappearance… Thank you for this wonderful evening.”

As Alcina prepared to leave, Donna stood up “Absolutely not! You will stay here.” She said firmly, she couldn't bear the thought of Alcina driving in the dark, as it would be too dangerous. Alcina hesitated, unsure of where she would sleep, but Donna was insistent.

"Lady Beneviento, please don't worry I’ll find an inn. I wouldn’t want to impose," Alcina said kindly, brushing down her dress. “Nonsense, please I don’t like the thought of you driving in the dark. And there are no inn’s in the village, we aren’t a tourist destination.”

Alcina let out a sigh of defeat before breaking into a smile, "That settles it then... But where will I sleep?" Donna stared at the countess blankly, her cheeks flushing with a soft blush before she spoke, "Well, the guest bedroom is upstairs... I will mostly be awake doing commissions so I'll sleep in the basement." Alcina raised her brow slightly before chuckling, "I would like to see your work, Lady Beneviento, if you wouldn't mind indulging me."

Donna's face lit up as Alcina expressed interest in her dolls, nodding excitedly, "Of course, do you want to go now?" Alcina looked at Donna with a smile, nodding slightly, "Indeed." Donna excitedly led Alcina into her house, watching as the woman took in her surroundings with a serene smile on her face. They entered the sitting room, and Alcina's gaze fell upon an empty wall. She narrowed her eyes thoughtfully before humming, "A painting would look perfect there, perhaps a self-portrait?"

Donna spun around, her expression doubtful, "I have thought about putting something there, but I don't like self-portraits. They always make me look demonic..." Alcina chuckled, "You clearly haven't found a good enough artist."

Donna spoke with a hint of amusement in her tone, turning to Alcina as she said, "Well, if you have any recommendations, I'd love to hear them," Alcina rolled her eyes slightly but couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement at the opportunity to suggest something. "Actually," she said, "I have the perfect recommendation in mind."

Alcina had always been fascinated by the art of creating beautiful things. She appreciated the time and effort that went into every piece, whether it was a painting or a sculpture. So when they made their way to Donna’s workshop. The air was filled with the scent of freshly cut fabric and oddly enough a strange earthly scent fluttered around the room.

"Please, make yourself comfortable." Donna said with a smile.

Alcina walked around the room, admiring all the dolls and the dresses that were hanging on the walls. She couldn't help but be in awe of the intricate details and the delicate fabrics. As she approached Donna's worktable, she noticed a half-finished doll lying on it.

"That's beautiful," Alcina remarked, pointing at the doll. “I am not a fan of dolls but I cannot deny the talent.”

"Thank you, dolls aren’t for everyone but they pay for the house so, I cant complain." Donna replied, blushing slightly. "I'm working on the dress right now."

Alcina watched as Donna picked up a piece of fabric and began to cut it into the shape of a dress. She was amazed at how quickly Donna's fingers moved, cutting and sewing with such precision.

"How do you make the dolls?" Alcina asked, curious.

Donna smiled. "It's a long process. First, I sketch out the design, then I sculpt the body out of clay. After that, I make a mold of the body and cast it in resin. Then, I paint and dress the doll."

Alcina listened intently, fascinated by the process. "And the dresses?"

"I usually start with a sketch and then choose the fabric and trimmings. Then, I cut and sew the pieces together," Donna explained.

"It sounds like a lot of work," Alcina said.

"It is," Donna replied, smiling. "But it's worth it to see the finished product."

Alcina nodded, impressed. "I can see why you're so good at it."

Donna blushed again. "Thank you, Alcina."

The two women continued to chat, with Donna showing Alcina different dolls and dresses that she had made. Alcina was amazed at the attention to detail and the level of craftsmanship that went into each piece.

As they talked, Alcina couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for Donna. She was talented, creative, and passionate about her work. She knew that she had found a kindred spirit in the shy but talented dressmaker.

As the night stretched on, an air of stillness settled in the room until finally, a voice broke the silence. "Well, I suppose it's time to retire for the night, I have a long drive in the morning," she said, her tone laced with a hint of weariness. The words seemed to hang in the air for a moment.

Donna had been lost in thought, looking up and smiling at Alcina. "Of course, please don't hesitate to let me know if you need anything else. Thank you for listening to me natter on," she said warmly, her eyes conveying a genuine sense of appreciation.

Alcina was standing near the door, her posture relaxed and a soft smile on her face as she listened attentively to Lady Beneviento speak. She nodded understandingly, showing that she was fully engaged in the conversation. Chuckling quietly, Alcina responded, "Why of course, I love listening to you 'natter'." Her voice was warm and friendly, "That's very kind, sleep well, lady Beneviento." Her words were sincere and heartfelt.

As the night drew to a close, she made her way into the spare bedroom, feeling the weariness of the day settle in her bones. With a deep sigh, she slowly began to undress, her fingers fumbling with the zipper of her dress as she struggled to remove it on her own. Finally, with a little effort, she managed to slip out of the confining garment and let it fall to the floor. Feeling a sense of relief at the release of the tight fabric, she climbed into bed, pulling the covers up to her chin. Before long, the gentle rhythm of her breathing signalled that she had swiftly fallen into a deep and restful sleep.

[lesbiancartoonlover]

Hello everyone!

So this is going to be something new. I never made a post like this.

So as I'm sure that most of you know, it's National Girlfriends Day.

So I wanted to surprise my girlfriend with a little something.

@firefly-fromhell I know well that you can't wait to find out what I've been up to hahaha

So, if you don't know yet, my amazing girlfriend is an incredible author. She wrote the absolute gem of "And the waltz goes on" on ao3. I'll leave a link at the end of the post for those who want to check it out.

Now I was thinking about doing this thing where I pick out my favourite line from each chapter of that fic and share it here. It wasn't easy to decide and if I'm honest, I'd just copy paste the whole fic here because every part is my favourite part.

But without further ado, let's get into it:

Chapter 1:

As they walked under thick apple trees, Donna thought this was not the Alcina most people got to see.

Chapter 2:

"And, if I do say so myself, I look impeccable in it," she concluded, running her fingers through her hair.

Chapter 3:

In her eyes, Donna was always the most spectacularly beautiful person at any gathering, and there was not a power on Earth that could convince Alcina otherwise.

Chapter 4:

"Just promise me there are no more ex-girlfriends who are obsessed with you."

Chapter 5:

"Ah, you must truly love her... you will understand me, and what I had to do."

Chapter 6:

And in the back of her mind, there was a nagging feeling the call she had with Donna would be the last moderately normal conversation they'll have in a long time.

Chapter 7:

Donna cried, but she wanted to scream.

Chapter 8:

"I want the castle."

Chapter 9:

"I miss you," Donna whispered, still holding the silent phone to her ear.

Chapter 10:

"Three roses for three daughters, symbolism and all that jazz," Cassandra smirked, looping her arm with Donna's.

Chapter 11:

"Come, let us welcome Donna to the family."

Chapter 12:

"If you had your way, you would probably protect me even from myself."

Chapter 13:

"Many things have changed, but not my feelings for you."

Chapter 14:

"What you two feel for each other is no ordinary love, it seems," Sorina said, then briskly walked away.

Chapter 15:

"Mother Miranda doesn't seem half as miserable as I imagined she would be."

Chapter 16:

"But us monsters don't deserve to feel sorry for ourselves, do we?"

Chapter 17:

She had thought they learned quite literally everything about each other in the course of forty years, yet Donna still found ways to surprise her.

Chapter 18:

"Alcina always hated yellow too," she said, glancing down at her wedding band and chuckling to herself.

Aaaaand that concludes it guys. I hope you all liked it, and if you did, do consider giving the whole thing a read.

As promised, here's the link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/34720936/chapters/86450344

I hope you'll like this little something I put together, darling <3

[firefly-fromhell]

Casually updates a year later 👀 Happy Pride 💖

[iialethi]

[rosestarlightkatarina]

[sukistunnel]

Saw this meme today on pintrest and I thought "mhm this looks familiar" and then after a few seconds I was like "OH SHIT THIS IS FAMILIAR"

so... Gaides and lentelman... I present to you... The girlhood spectrum:

[eeriedragone]

Ooooagh I'm DONE more or less

A while ago I got to see Mother Mother live (still can't believe that happened) and it inspired me to make... whatever this is :p

The inconsistencies can be attributed to the breaks I had to take whole making it, and my fluctuating motivation. Messy as it is, I still had fun, and that was my main goal :) I hope you enjoy it, or at least discover a new cool song!

[much2leite]

This is easily one of my favourite artworks of Donna and Angie.

Donna's eye. Donna hiding half of her face with Angie. Her hands and nails. Her dark hair. Her expression.

I can go on and on 🫠

Ufff this woman

[heartdoomed]

Cuddling With Them

Pairing: Re Village Ladies

Genre: Fluff, Headcanons

Warnings: Mild sexual implications.

Masterlist

Alcina Dimitrescu

• Alcina is often surprisingly needy between four walls. When she arrives from a long day of stressful calls and dealing with her daughter’s shenanigans there is nothing she’d rather do than just rest her head on your lap and relax against your touch.

• Once this woman is fully comfortable with you, expect to spend entire hours just tangled with her and two glasses of wine.

• If you are a good listener she will brag her lungs out to you in her great drama-fashion. Ends up having someone to talk to is better than throwing expensive furniture at walls! You guys saved enough shopping trips with this.

• If you’re a talker rather than a listener expect everyone to hear you two laughing your hearts out about all shorts of subjects. She loves listening to whatever topics you are passionate about even if they aren’t much of her interest. Maybe she actually just loves how cute you look when you blabber to her.

• Just imagine laying on top/spooning with that woman. It’s like having a giant pillow that hugs you back (and often suffocates you on accident)

• If she isn’t petting your head she is definitely whispering sweet nothings to you. This woman just cant stay away from you when you both finally have a moment to be together in private — even if you two fall silent it will be the best silence you’ve ever experienced.

Bela Dimitrescu

• Oh this woman is absolutely lost in you. She was the first to suggest cuddling and she is an absolute menace when it comes to it. Just expect to be absolutely pampered by her. Pet names, face smooches, head pats, neck kisses, shoulder bites, and so, so much more.

• Bela has a thing for specific caring cuddles, such as cuddling together while you two bath, for example. A warm, fragrant bath is the perfect scenario for you both to relax together. She loves to wash your body, or just to have you help her wash her hair — imagine the unlimited possibilities of a playful bath time together.

• As much as she enjoys pampering you, Bela can be just as much of a pillow princess. She will absolutely love to be spooned or have her hair played with. Humming makes everything even better, she loves your voice, it’s just as comforting as the cuddling itself.

• Also the grumpiest when it comes to actually having to stop cuddling each other. She knows of her duties but leaving you on her bed to chase a runaway maid is inconvenient enough.

Cassandra Dimitrescu

• Putting it simply; It’s a challenge.

• If working on her feelings for you was hard, imagine getting this woman to give out affection like this? At first she thought cuddling was a waste of time, that she could be doing incredibly hunts with the time wasted doing nothing. That changed once you two first tried it out.

• You could never imagine how actually needy she was under her though behavior. Even more shocking was the fact that she once demanded you to spoon her instead. Of course she also enjoys spooning you, though getting away from her lock grip is almost impossible.

• She has this thing for feeling you as a whole; Taking in your scent, feeling your chest raise and fall, admiring your face while your eyes are closed. She is the jealous type after all, it’s just fair that she’d want to admire what is hers — though she will get flustered if you do the same, she is just not 100% used to romance.

• She is definitely a snarky cuddler, though. She will bite you if you end up teasing her about her softer side and if you both aren’t careful enough, a wrestling session will get her riled up.

Daniela Dimitrescu

• Are you kidding me? This woman LOVES cuddling to a point where she would actively “kidnap” you in order to receive more cuddles.

• She is a hopeless lover, of course she is kissing the hell of you during your cuddles. She finds it too adorable whenever you get flustered from her kisses, she may even get feisty and bite you out of playfulness.

• Prepare to do all short of things too, from reading books together to pillow fighting and covering all of her room in feathers — She will shoo you away in time to not get in trouble with Alcina. Her room is so full of secret passages that at some point you just got used to sneaking in and out whenever.

• Rainy dark nights awake together? Absolutely. You two would whispers secrets to each other while forgetting the need of sleeping.

• If you both just opt for a simple time together, get your ears ready to hear Dani blabbering about all shorts of stuff while getting comfortable onto you — If you stare too much at her you might even be able to rip out a blush or chuckle.

Donna Beneviento

• Oh, this poor woman.

• If showing her face to you took enough courage and self confidence of her, cuddling is a total different level of trust.

• Don’t take it personally, this woman loves you with every fiber of her being but receiving affection and giving affection aren’t things she is used with.

• But as soon as you two work it up you better be ready to be trapped. Once you two start cuddling Donna just can’t believe how much she loves it. She feels safe, protected, loved at least — This is better than anything she had ever imagined.

• At first things would be slow and steady, testing each other’s likings and boundaries. She loves to have her hair played with — she is a small spoon by nature, even if she is taller than you. When she is eventually comfortable enough to give you affection back, she often humms to you as she caresses your hand or back.

• She often gets flustered when you call out her cute antics that she hadn’t showed yet, she has her own affection mannerisms that she does her best to hide but you always encourage her to show herself more.

• Don’t be surprised if she easily falls asleep while cuddling with you, this woman is so affection deprived that being this comfortable around someone allows her to rest without worries. Funnily enough if she does falls asleep don’t expect to be able to escape her death grip, you are staying until she wakes up again.

Mother Miranda

• By far the most possessive but also the most demanding.

• It was kinda shocking to see Miranda undressed of all of her usual robes, without a mask her tiredness was visible but so was her piercing gaze upon you.

• You are her lover but she often calls you a pet nonetheless. Maybe she enjoys the thought— no, the certainty that you belong to her and that is a fact you can’t escape. She is a equally giver and a receiver, she demands obedience but also demands you to embrace her whenever she feels personally needy.

• Something she loves to do is to have your head on her lap as you two rest on her chambers. Reading letters and paperwork is much productive when she has you by her side, her slender fingers travel across your skull with a hauntingly soft touch — she will most certainly smile she feels your lips kissing her hand or your hand intertwining with hers.

• Expect either a comforting imperial silence or just whispers between the both of you. She prefers quiet cuddle sessions, probably due to her recurrent headaches from dealing with her bickering children.

• Just make sure to not tease or be too needy around her or this cuddling session will take a much heated turn.

AN: Phew I had a sweet time writing these! Hopefully more scenarios are coming soon~ Stares intently at my ask box

[lizucrilhos]

"Don't leave...I can't let you..."

donna beneviento that i drew for a RESIDENT EVIL COLLAB

[ladybathoryy]

These are my favorites of "In another life with Lady Dimitrescu" Collection. <3

(Crd to annasassiart & marblenxart)

[firefly-fromhell]

So I did a thing. In best traditions of fanfic writing, I made my own fic a playlist:

Haven't got a Spotify, so it's an old school YouTube playlist. A song for a chapter (so still ongoing) + main theme 💖

[whore4gwen]

Re8 Women dating HCs

Contains: Lady Dimitrescu, Donna Benevento, & Mother Miranda

WLW

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Tags: Light talks of manipulation, narcissism, and sadism, mental health issues, fluff, angst if you squint hard enough, possessiveness, slightly unhinged behavior, MY personal head cannons, very slight suggestiveness, Mirandas fucking God complex, isolation, religious elements, cuddling, poor perception of love, & tax evasion.

A/N: Im working on sm things rn it’s not even funny. Despite that, I desperately wanted to post something, so here’s some of my hc. No these are not all my hcs, these are just some of the REALISTIC ones I have. These are based on my own personal perception of these fictional characters. You are welcome to disagree with anything I write, but you’re not welcome to harass me about it. Please keep negativity to yourselfs. Anyways, please enjoy!

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Alcina:

-It’s not that Lady Dimitrescu is incapable of loving another, I just think it’s the way she would love.

-Carnal, possessive, dangerous, a little crazed even. Nothing about the lady’s love is sensual or soft. She’s powerful, domineering, and boy does she relish in it. Of course she’s aware of all the things she could do, all the things you’d let her do. So willing, so compliant, so easy to control.

-Alcina is a narcissist through and through. You will bend to her will, to her every need. You’re hers, after all. (We still love you thou)

-I feel like her love is very incessant, very smothering for lack of better words. She’s not exactly clingy, but she needs you around, she needs to feel your presence.

-Always, and I mean always watching you. Nothing you do will go past her. She needs to know exactly where you are and what you’re doing at all times.

-A bit emotionally manipulative. Of course she doesn’t see it that way, she just wants everything to go her way. What’s so wrong with that?

-I think for the most part she’s a little self aware about her flaws and what not, but I wouldn’t say this with 100% certainty. A big part of her doesn’t really see a problem with the way she is. It’s absolutely normal.

-But to be fair, it’s not like anyone would call her out.. so🤷🏻‍♀️

-Pet names pet names pet names. Alcina absolutely adores them. She only really uses your names unless she’s really pissed. In that case, run.

Donna:

-Shy. So incredibly so that you don’t hear her voice till weeks after working for her. And the way your jaw fell to the ground when you heard it had Angie belly laughing on the ground. If it wasn’t for her, you thought maybe you were hearing things.

-Forgets to eat often. She gets so preoccupied with her dolls, she doesn’t always take the best care of herself. So make sure you remind her to eat:(

-It’ll take AGES to get Donna there, but when you do, she is nothing short of the wait. Very passionate, and a little unhinged.

-Like Alcina, she’s a bit possessive.

-She finally found someone she was comfortable with showing her scare, you’re not going anywhere. You belong to her and that’s final. You’re literally stuck, so get comfortable.

-Values your opinion over everything. Her cooking, her sewing skills, her Garden. Donna swoons at praise. A light pink dusting her cheeks any time you compliment her, no matter how minor.

-Poor Donna has been alone for quite some time now. Touch starved as well as touch repulsed. Have fun with that :)

- Canonically, Donna has really bad mental health issues, which causes her to lash out and make rash decisions. She’s not abusive by any means, just a lot to handle.

-She gets into her own head a lot. Constantly convincing herself none of this is real. That one day she’ll wake up and you’ll be gone.

-I know she has manic episodes. Cannot convince me otherwise. Before you, they were almost unmanageable. Your first experience dealing with Donna during one terrified you. You were so worried about Donna, you had no idea what was happening.

-You tried desperately to comfort her. Unfortunately the voices were stronger than your weak attempts.

-After a while, she finally calmed down and explained that catastrophe as best as she could without scaring you off.

-At first Donna didn’t really understand the purpose of cuddling. It’s not that she didn’t want to, she was just truly confused. After having the significance of cuddling explained to her, she fell in love with it.

-Unironically, she’s the big spoon. She loves holding you, making sure you’re safe in her arms. Now, it’s the only way she can fall asleep.

Miranda:

-This bitch is so crazy.

-All shits and giggles aside, this woman is absolutely sadistic.

-Mind games are inevitable. Especially if she’s truly in love with you, in her dark and twisted way.

-Possessive asf.

-Did I already say possessive?

-Miranda is definitely stingy and will isolate you from your friends/family. Why do you need them when you have her? She’s your Goddess, she’s all you need. Never mind everyone else.

-Definitely the type to tell you to take a nap if you ever say you’re tired of her shit.

-You’re not going anywhere. Nice try, but no.

-I know this is obvious, but her God complex is really top tier. I mean seriously.

-Absolutely loves being worshipped, and not just in the bedroom, if you know what I mean. She wants to be put first, she wants to be your number one priority, your Goddess, your everything.

-She will find a way to incorporate her status & power in everything she does.

-She loves you, but you must always remember your place, under her. Figuratively and literally.

-Despite her cut off personality, she’s definitely a cuddlier. Especially after a long day of failed experiments and aggravating meetings.

-Like Donna, Miranda has been alone for almost a century. She’s so damn touch starved yet also incredibly touch repulsed at the same time. Have fun coping.

-Of course she threatened you if you ever told anyone thou. I mean can you imagine THE Mother Miranda being spooned? Imagine what the public would say.

-Fucking tax evader.

-After she gets Eva back, successfully, she lessens up, but only a bit. Like Alcina, she is the way she is and she doesn’t really see the problem with it.

I want all three of them so badly.

[rosestarlightkatarina]

[jinxxparodiesproductions]

Here, ya’ll tumblr folks get to have this treat a bit early 😁 hope everyone has a good Easter 🐰

[charlessmiths-wife]

here - have some hcs about how the RE8 women would help you when you’re feeling a bit down! Bc we all know stress would be a lot easier to handle with some of our fave evil women by our side <3 ❤️💕💗💓

RE8 WOMEN COMFORTING YOU WHEN STRESSED/UPSET

ALCINA

-> In my mind Alcina sort of freaks out the first time she sees you get really stressed

-> she’s not been comforted much herself in her life, so she’s not entirely sure how to do it.

-> at first, she’s a tad maternal about the whole thing. she’s accustomed to comforting her daughters, however - she soon learns there’s a difference between the comfort of a mother and the comfort of a partner

-> and so with time, I reckon Alcina shifts and grows into an excellent partner to have around in instances of stress. she’s calm, she’s cool and collected. she’ll reason with you and rationally talk you down from your stress - before doing something with you to take your mind off it. maybe going for a walk or taking you on a date.

-> either way, your stress always dissipates with Alcina’s help.

BELA

-> Ugh. She can relate.

-> Bela is a stressed girlie herself, it’s something she’s accustomed to - therefore it’s something she’s used to dealing with.

-> She’d be very helpful. She’d talk it through with you, I reckon Bela is a great listener - and she’d hold you close whilst letting you talk about it for as long as you need.

-> picture this, your head on Bela’s chest, her fingers slowly stroking and combing through your hair whilst you tell her about all your worries, and she softly hums and nods along. being there for you every step of the way. who wouldn’t feel better?

CASSANDRA

-> lmao

-> Cassandra is the love of my life, so I can confidently admit that for a while babygirl would have NO IDEA what she’s doing

-> I think Cassandra is a very rational woman, and so seeing you upset immediately makes her think there’s some sort of immediate threat that needs sorting out.

-> so her initial reaction might be more… panicked than the calm and cool response you might see from the rest of her family members

-> however once you assure her you’re in no harm or danger, she’ll calm down, and then she can get to comforting you.

-> because she’s so rational, Cassie is EXCELLENT at providing advice for your situation.

-> she’ll sort whatever’s upsetting you out instantly. she’s just that good.

-> and, of course, she’ll do her best to comfort you along the way. Pressing a kiss to your forehead and reminding you how proud she is of you. I’m in love.

DANIELA

-> babygirl is like a KOALA BEAR

-> when Dani can tell your stressed/generally upset, she’ll cling to you. cuddling up with you as much as she can and not letting you go.

-> “oh my poor baby! come here, lie down with me.”

-> she’ll pepper your face with kisses. all whilst letting you complain all you need about whatever’s getting you down.

-> she’ll also join in on the complaining. which is just… so funny?

-> “ugh, I’m sorry about your boss my love…. she sounds like a total jerk!” “… you don’t know her, Dani.” “Still!”

-> it’s just very loving from her. as she is with everything. she’ll hold your hand and kiss you softly and tell you how loved you are, and remind you that you’ll always have her.

DONNA

-> the first time she sees you stressed or upset - DONNA. FREAKS. OUT.

-> somehow even more than Cassandra and Alcina combined.

-> however, as time passes and you guys get to know each other more and more… Donna becomes amazing?

-> she can instantly tell when somethings getting you down. and from there she acts as a silent but strong presence. she’ll guide you through whatever’s getting you down.

-> her go to plan is to run the pair of you a bath, and then cook you dinner. I head cannon Donna is an EXCELLENT cook and she knows how to cook up a comforting and hearty dish that’ll make you feel just better.

-> she’s very good at dealing with the emotional aspect of it all. she might not always know exactly what advice to give, but she is an EXCELLENT listener and she’ll always do her absolute best to calm you down. rubbing your back and holding you close, wiping your tears if needs be.

-> (can you tell im a massive Donna girlie?)

MIRANDA

-> surprisingly, she’s excellent.

-> Miranda’s well accustomed, in my mind, to dealing with you being upset/stressed about a situation.

-> she knows if you need comforting or advice.

-> if it’s comforting you need, she’ll pull out all the stops. running you a bath, rubbing your back, letting you talk it out.

-> if it’s advice you need, Miranda is excellent. she’ll help you sort your situation out as quick as possible.

-> no matter what, she’ll brew you a cup of tea and remind you not to let things get you down. she reminds you of the importance of only concerning yourself with what you can control.

-> she’ll tell you how well you’re doing, and how loved you are. kissing you softly and resting your forehead against hers. she makes the world calm down for you.