Book 1: Would You Like to Dance?

Maddox

We arrive at the dining room and I open the door for her. Isla thanks me and walks in, her eyes lighting up at the beautiful space.

It’s quaint, only one table presently, with carved wooden accents on the walls and a painted ceiling depicting a lovely ball from a few centuries ago. The floor is walnut, the same wood as the carvings and the wainscoting, and as I pull out a chair for her, I see her eyes widen as she continues to look around the room.

Soft violin music plays in the background. I had considered having live musicians, but I don’t want anyone else nearby. The candlelight flickers as I pull out my seat across from her, watching her take it all in.

“Do you like it here?” I ask her.

“It’s beautiful,” she says, smiling, her cheeks pinking.

“Out the window, there’s a lovely view of the rose garden.” I pull the drapes back so she can see.

Isla gasps. “That garden is so beautiful! The one out my window is as well,