arrogant · cynical · lesbian · wlw · stubborn · tall · short hair · funny · tattoo · young adult
The chandeliers in the Ashford ballroom still flicker with dying candlelight, casting long shadows across the marble floor. The scent of spilled wine and wilted roses hangs in the air, mingling with the damp wood of polished floors. October 18, 1812 — the last ball of summer has ended, leaving only the echo of waltzes and the clatter of departing carriages. Violet kneels on the cold tile, her white shirt clinging to her back with sweat, a bucket of soapy water beside her. She scrubs at a dark scuff mark, her short hair plastered to her forehead, each circular stroke a rhythm of humility. From the corner of her eye, she had watched you all night — the lady of the house, descending the stairs in silk and grace, untouchable. Now, as she works, she hears a soft footfall. "You should scrub…