Chapter 43
Chapter Forty-Three
We’re in a fucking fairytale, darlings.
“You look exquisite, darling.” Imogene pressed another shimmering clip into my hair. My appearance was a mystery to me, well, besides the tiny frown I felt on my lips.
Remy stepped into the room wearing a blue two-piece gown with her braids pulled into a high ponytail on her head. “Almost ready?”
“I think so?” I said and Imogene put one more clip into my hair before clapping her hands.
“Beautiful, Momma,” Edith said from my lap, and I let her slide around my wrist before standing to look in the mirror near my dresser.
The blue stars on the dress shimmered in the lights as I stopped.
Edith changed her colors to quickly match the black tulle gown with little stars sparkling on her sides.
Imogene was right. I was exquisite with the messy updo, and glistening crystals scattered around my brown hair. The bodice fit perfectly, and the sheer sleeves were still one of my favorite new fashion choices.
Imogene added simple makeup to my face, claiming my natural beauty was meant for this dress, and she was right.
Remy clapped then proceeded to the door. “You’re stunning. Are we ready? The solstice ball starts in fifteen minutes.” My roommate hated being late. And while I’d love to tease her by taking my time, I was technically ready.
“Don’t stay up too late looking at all the dresses.” I set my noodle in her stuffed moose and adjusted Remy’s tablet with the security footage of the dining hall. The tables had been taken out this morning, and the staff were blowing fake snow out of their wands when I passed by during lunch time.
I’m sure the decorations would leave me breathless. I just wish he would be there to see it with me.
“We’ll discuss our favorites in the morning.” I kissed Edith’s snout.
A caw came from the window as Russel dropped something on the ledge for me and then left. A shiny orange bottle cap.
“Thanks, buddy!” I rushed over and placed the cap in the dish on my nightstand. Ever since the day in the gazebo, he’s been hanging around me more. Giving me more gifts like bottle caps, shiny rocks, and wires. Pretty sure he stole a key chain from someone though I couldn’t prove it.
“I wish he was here.” My voice shook as I turned around. My fancily dressed friends waited for me with matching sad expressions. They’ve been my greatest support these past few weeks, sealing our bond as a family even more.
“I’m sorry, darling.” Imogene grabbed my hand, and we walked out of the room together.
“He’ll be here in spirit.” Remy closed the door behind us, and we followed a crowd of delighted seniors down the newly furnished escalators to the ball.
I was right when I thought the décor would leave me breathless.
The dining hall was a sparkling winter wonderland full of fake snow and twinkling icicles hanging on the blue walls. The floor itself looked like ice but wasn’t slippery at all.
“We’re in a fucking fairytale, darlings.” Imogene shrugged off her coat and it vanished with a flick of her wand. Yay for storage magic.
A few whistles came from further in the room as a two gentleman took in Imogene’s hot pink gown.
“Let the men bask in our glow.” She raised her hand like a starlet, then her eyes widened. I swirled around hoping to see someone I knew but wouldn’t be here tonight. Sadly, that moment of hopefulness cost me.
“That sparkling white chocolate fountain is calling my name.” Imogene didn’t bother waving before she practically ice skated over to the dessert table.
The party was in full swing at eight p.m. because let’s face it, most of our bedtimes were around nine. A fact I tried to tell Piper that happened when you aged, but she still claimed she’ll be older and up till midnight all the time. Ha! Amateur.
I tried to have a good time. I smiled, danced by myself, and with my ladies. It was truly a magical night straight out of fairytale. Except, I was missing my billionaire prince who owned the castle.
Remy knew I was down in the dumps and tried her hardest to cheer me up. She even slow danced with me, which I found sweet.
Needing a moment, I left for courtyard and took some breaths. The cool wind danced over my skin, raising goosebumps behind. Guess I didn’t think this decision over much. My dress had sleeves, but they were sheer and mostly for show.
Five minutes later, I was back in the dining hall. My magic fizzing beneath my skin like I’d been plugged into an outlet.
Which was odd since that feeling only happened when I was near Rylan.
I froze.
“There’s my star.”