Page 82 of Bride By Coronation

The woman who brought the wardrobe declares, "It's time."

My excitement turns to panic. My pulse skyrockets and a sheen of sweat breaks out on my forehead. I reach for Zara's arm and stare at her.

"Breathe, Fiona," she orders.

I take several deep breaths, calming myself as best as possible.

"Are you okay?" she frets.

There's no backing out. Everyone will die if I do.

I pull it together and lift my chin, squaring my shoulders. "Yes."

"Ready?" Valentina questions.

Not wanting to show her any weakness, I force my legs to move. I hold the sides of my dress, brush past her, and ask the woman, "Where am I going?"

She curtsies, then replies, "Follow me, please." She guides me down a long hallway lit by the flickering flames of the candles in sconces.

With every step I take, my nerves intensify. By the time I get to the door, my insides quiver.

She pushes the heavy wood open, and vibrations from humming hit me. It's loud, unexpected, and seeps into my skin, digging into my bones until my trembling seems a natural part of the moment.

"Zara," the woman says, motioning her forward.

Zara hugs me. "I'll always owe you," she whispers in my ear, then kisses me on the cheek. She offers a remorseful smile, secures her mask over her face, and steps through the door. She disappears.

Valentina offers, "You'll do great," puts on her eye mask, and exits.

The hums turn to masculineoms. A stomping sound follows, then a feminineah.

The hairs on my arms rise. My anxiety explodes.

The woman nods. "Your turn."

I stare at her.

"It'll be okay," she reassures.

Get it together.

I find my strength, lift my chin, and step inside.

The sounds echo around me.

A man in a tuxedo, wearing a skull mask, steps beside me. He hugs me. "Fiona, you look beautiful."

"Sean!" I blurt out, relieved it's him.

"You okay?" he questions.

This isn't the time to be weak.

"Yes," I reply as calmly as I can.

He retreats, and his eyes meet mine. The mask can't hide his guilt. "Fiona?—"

"Don't," I warn, knowing if he gives me his apologies again, I won't be able to get through this.

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