Masquerade [Kuskovo Estate]

[Noémi Jourdain]

After Kristian left in pursuit of Jensen, Noémi continued circulating, keeping half an eye out for Dmitri. Her heart fluttered like a trapped animal whenever she thought she caught a glimpse of him, but fortunately they seemed to have lost each other amongst the milling guests, and she did not see him again. His sister, too, seemed occupied by her date for the evening, which was perhaps an even greater blessing. Dmitri’s attention might cause Noémi discomfort in its unwanted intensity, but Sofia would doubtless be the crueler. Reigniting the burn of old hatreds was not something she wished to risk, especially not here.

She knew none of the other guests, but would not depart before Nikolai made his own exit, which was why she lingered. Her soft and pleasant manner was not unwelcome and she had no problem occupying herself in conversation, though she graciously turned down any more dances, and did not stay in the same company for too long. Noémi possessed a quiet magnetism, slow as the bloom of a rare flower, which had made her a very successful escort with a certain type of client, but also attracted when she did not wish it. But she also knew how to step quietly; to disentangle herself before any lasting impression was left. She drank little, as she had not all evening; just enough for social nicety. That was an old habit.

Eventually a whisper was directed discretely into her ear; a matter of security protocol, to which she nodded in understanding. She didn’t question it, perhaps relieved for the opportunity to disengage for a moment, following the instruction to move elsewhere in the grand mansion.