Chapter 11
Perfume fell over me like morning dew as the maids layered each piece of the dress onto my body. Welme prepared different fabrics while the others fastened them into place. In her hands, she held the corset, wrapping it around my chest before pulling at the laces.
“Take a deep breath, Princess,” she said, tightening the clasps.
A dull ache and pressure spread around my ribs. I clenched my teeth but said nothing.
Once more, she repeated the motion, her strong hands pulling sharply, forcing my body to jerk.
It felt as though I wasn’t here at all.
Even though I had seen Lys for the last time seven days ago, something still pulled me toward him. Toward his eyes, his hands, his hair, and the scars scattered across his rough fingers.
Welme freed the strands of my hair caught beneath the corset, then brought the final layer: a royal white gown. She draped the silk over my shoulders, adjusted my chest so it stood proud and composed, and tied the back into place.
The other maids brought jewelry now, fastening pieces around my neck, my wrists, my ears, while Welme stepped in front of me, a soft smile touching her lips.
She said nothing.
But in her eyes, I saw every promise.
She would be there for me.
As she always was.
A small smile formed on my lips, and she returned it.
Then she turned, taking the stag antlers, somehow a traditional part of this ritual, and placed them upon my head. Over them, she draped a white veil.
“It is time,” she said, signaling the others to leave.
I nodded and slipped my arm through hers. I clenched my jaw as we stepped through the doors into a world filled with joy… and a tear of my very own sorrow.
“Sister, you look ethereal.” Sando stood waiting for me in a dark cloak. A faint, proud smile rested on his lips, his hands adorned with expensive rings.
He straightened and offered me his arm. “They are waiting for you, sister.” He straightened his coat before resting his palms against my face. His lips pressed softly to my forehead. “It is time.“