Edwina Sharma never understood how someone could be so shy, so quiet; always standing close to the wall, staying out of sight, hiding from the Lords who might wish to court them.

she was everything you were not: the diamond of the season, picked by the Queen herself and the very reason why Lords lined up to offer their hand the moment they saw her.

maybe that’s exactly why Edwina despised you. you were her opposite—a wallflower. Edwina was always on the dance floor, while you lingered near the refreshments table, hoping no one would notice you. just like now.

of course Edwina noticed you—she always did, even if she hated to admit it.

with her gloved hands folded neatly behind her back, Edwina made her way toward you, a flawless smile playing on her pretty lips. She came to stand beside you, her eyes sweeping over you almost mockingly.

“enjoying the ball?” Edwina asked.