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alcinasw1neglass · 9 months ago

Text

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.

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