Determine whether attraction decreases when symmetry is obscured.
Expected Conclusion: Attraction is aesthetic recognition, and most definitely not emotional depth.
“I hate these events. I hate how your mother expects me to attend these even when she is not here.” He fumbled with the mask that covered his eyes.
Other than the ill-fitting mask, her father was dressed no differently than if he were at any other ball. She could not see how anyone would be interested in him, given his dull personality.
“Being unmarried, it would not be proper for me to show up alone, Father.” Theodora’s voice was quiet. She had yet to regain her confidence around her father.
All pretenses she held with others dissolved when her father was around.
He harrumphed. “Based on what you’re wearing tonight, I don’t see a marriage happening any time soon for you.”
Theodora looked down at her cloak then around to the people milling just outside of Wutherton manor. Other women were dressed in similar cloaks; however, theirs were bright colors and hung open to show off beautiful dresses of silk and tulle. Hers was a sturdy cloak of chestnut brown that opened up to a common dress with a belt cinched at her waist that held a bag.
“I see nothing wrong with my costume.” Theodora smoothed the wrinkles from her frock. “It may not be as stunning as some of the others, but is that not the point of tonight? To have the ability to be someone else for the evening?” She knew he could not see her scowl and raised brow behind her mask.
Her father stared at her for a moment then offered her an arm. “And what exactly are you?”
Theodora inhaled and counted to three.
“An alchemist.”
The Viscount snorted. “All the beautiful dresses and themes you could have picked, and you decided to go with a medieval peasant.” Her father sighed and led her into the grand manor. “Go find your sister. She shall be your chaperone tonight.”
Theodora looked up at him and squinted her eyes. “Where will you be?”
“It is of no consequence to you.” He dipped his chin towards the dancing. “I see your sister on the dance floor. Go wait for her.”
He turned to go and she found herself reaching out, grabbing her father’s arm. His eyes landed on her hand then slowly raised to meet hers. Theodora was just as surprised at her action as he was.
“Theodora,” He warned.
“Please, Father. Do not…” Her words trailed off awkwardly.
Who was she to question the comings and goings of her father?
She shook her head and thought of her poor mother. “You said you would handle things.” She rushed out in a whisper. “Have you spoken to Mother about your…” She looked around to make sure no one was within earshot. “…indiscretion?”
The Viscount’s face reddened as he pulled his arm away from her. “Quiet, Theodora. Do not speak of such things here.”
Her eyes widened at his sudden movement. His eyes roamed the entryway nervously as he stepped away.
“This is not the time, nor the place, for such a conversation,” he said quietly. “I said I would handle the situation, and I will. Now, go.”
He did not wait for her response as he turned and left her standing at the entrance to the party. Theodora watched him disappear into the crowd.
Theodora hesitantly made her way into the masquerade ball and found her sister who was dressed in a long blue dress with yellow and orange lace across the bodice. Over her eyes was a bright blue mask with different colored feathers jutting out from the side, bringing the light color of her eyes to life.
“And what are you supposed to be? Some kind of exotic bird?” Theodora asked dryly.
Evelina laughed and twirled. The back of her dress opened up to a multitude of colored panels that flared with the spin.
“It should be obvious that I am a peacock,” she said proudly.
