The Revenge
Selestina has finally surrendered to Alejandro and he incessantly demands more. The truth about her father is revealed from someone else, making it a bitter pill to swallow. Selestina decides to try a new approach to appeal to Alejandro.
Chapter 4
The flickering glow of candle lit sconces danced along the white stucco walls of his hacienda, casting shadows over the dark polished terracotta floor. Outside, the warm night hummed with the distant buzzing of wildlife, and the scent of orange blossoms drifted in from the courtyard, mingling with the faint aroma of burning wax.
Alejandro stood near the arched doorway of the grand hallway, his hands clasped behind his back, a restless energy betraying his typical composed demeanor. Dressed in a finely decorated black tailcoat, embroidered in silver thread, the dark blue cravat blooming, delicately sewn silver vest, his shoes polished to a mirror shine, he exuded a quiet power. His dark eyes, usually unreadable, flickered with anticipation and a bit of annoyance having to wait for a woman. He turned toward the grand staircase.
A hush fell over the noisy hacienda as soft footsteps echoed from the upper landing. And then, she appeared.
Selestina descended, her midnight blue gown shimmered like moonlit waves, the delicate lace spilling over her arms, the trim fluttering with each graceful step. A pearl comb nestled in her cascading raven curls, securing the silk mantilla that framed her delicate features. Her dark eyes, filled with a mixture of innocence and tenderness, found his across the room.
Alejandro inhaled sharply, his heart strangely pounding despite his carefully fostered control. She was breathtaking, a vision that made the serenity of his hacienda itself feel insignificant in comparison. As she reached the last step, he stepped forward, offering his hand.
"Señorita," he murmured, his voice low, awed.
"Don Alejandro," she elegantly replied, showing the ghost of a smile on her lips as she placed her gloved hand in his.
The contact sent a spark between them, cursing himself for his naughty thoughts. However, a silent promise of something unspoken and undeniable. He led her into the night, into days ahead that neither dared yet to name.
~
The hacienda of Don Miguel was alive with activity, guests in elaborate gowns and tailored suits and tailcoats mingled beneath the flickering lanterns, their laughter blending with the melodies of a nearby band. It was a place of excess wine flowing like water, silk draped and laughter that brought the estate to life. It was the perfect place to disappear.
Alejandro knew it the moment they entered the grand ballroom, where golden candlelight flickered against the polished marble floors and the air was thick with whispered conspiracies. Nobles, merchants, and soldiers alike drank and danced, their eyes always watching. He secured his arm around Selestina's waist as he guided her through the crowd, his touch both protective and possessive.
Her midnight blue silk shimmered in the torchlight, drawing admiring glances. He tamped down the possessive urge to shield her, knowing that hiding her away would only make her a more
tempting target. He had to show her off, yes, but more importantly, he had to protect her.
And yet, none of it mattered when he looked at Selestina.
She was at his side, draped in that expensive gown that clung to her delicious curves, her dark hair cascading over one shoulder. She was radiant, untouchable. A queen without a throne, but yet she was the most powerful presence in the room.
Men stared. Other men stared at his possession. Yes, they should all envy him.
Alejandro scoffed, but his hand found her waist, pulling her closer, fingers pressing possessively into the silk of her gown.
His lips brushed against her ear. "Do not think to look at another man. Do not even dare to touch." She nodded and bit her lip.
At home, she was his captive. Now, she was something far more dangerous.
His... equal.
She offered a tight smile, her eyes revealing a hint of the anxiety he knew she was trying to suppress. "I feel like everyone is watching me."
He squeezed her hand reassuringly. "They are. Stay close to me." He had to exude confidence, even if he didn't fully feel it. He couldn't let her see the extent of his worry.
Turning his head, he glanced towards his men scattered and disguised as Miguel's guests. One of them nodded, another raised his glass. Alejandro and Miguel had ensured their safety.
He steered her towards Miguel and Isabella. Miguel, with his booming laugh and effortless charm, was surrounded by admirers, holding court like a benevolent king. Getting him alone to discuss the Garcia situation would be difficult.
He is an expert in charm, Alejandro thought. But charm could also be a useful weapon.
"You are here!" Miguel exclaimed, clapping him on the back, "Come, join the party!"
He inspected Alejandro with a playful look.
"I should have you arrested, Don Alejandro!" Eyes were focused on Alejandro whose arm tightened beneath his sleeve. Alejandro gave him an evil glance.
"For bringing such a beautiful woman to my hacienda and I have not yet danced with her!" Alejandro released her hand.
"Don Miguel, you will never dance with her." Alejandro laughed and embraced his friend.
"You have been away for too long, my friend."
"I request you to introduce us properly to your lovely companion, Miguel." With a nod, Miguel quickly replied, "It is my pleasure".
"May I introduce the beautiful Isabella." He ushered Isabella forward.
"Isabella, you know Don Alejandro, of course, and this is his dear friend, Señorita Selestina." Isabela curtly curtsied. "And I am Don Miguel Luis Vargas." He kissed Selestina's hand and Alejandro was less than pleased, lifting an eyebrow. Selestina smiled gently.
Selestina had a kind spirit that he had come to find agreeable.
After some small talk, Alejandro was pleased to find the two women kindred friends. It was time for him to step aside.
