A week passed, and she found herself in Duke Esmeralda’s estate. More precisely she found herself in the grand ballroom. 

Her cousin, Sophia, nodded in approval and handed her a gold and white mask. By all means, the ball was not a masquerade ball, but Sophia attempted to be kind to her cousin. Anastasia decided to accept her kindness, but if she were perfectly honest, the best form of kindness would have been to leave her at home. 

She saw her mother chatting with some older ladies at the corner, including Duchess Esmeralada. Yesterday, she had finally met her parents. 

Her mother hugged her and then left the room. Her father chatted with her briefly and provided an update regarding her former fiance. 

“He reimbursed us for the dowry and included an additional $5,000. He also wrote this letter, her Father said as he handed her the letter. “I can burn it for you Anita” he said. 

“There’s no need. I’ll read it later,” she said, going to leave the room. 

“Will you attend Duke Esmeralda’s gathering? Your mother said it would be good for you. You haven’t left the mansion in the last eight months,” he said. 

“I think it's time I see old friends again. The scar is permanent, and this is my life now,” she said. Anastasia was slowly becoming used to her current predicament. Although she had memories of her former life, she did not know her name. Maybe Anastasia’s life wasn’t bad. She seemed healthy, and for someone who had spent a lot of time in a hospital room, it was a great opportunity. 

“I see. Make sure to take one of the maids wherever you go, especially at the ball” he said. 

Anastasia then left the room, and throughout the week she found her mother had picked out a dress for her. She never saw her enter her room, but she appreciated her. It seems that her mother had distanced herself from her the moment she got the scar. 

Anastasia sighed, the ball was just beginning and she had a few more hours before they could leave.