Page 26 of Bound By Honey

Sage opened it to find the most beautiful jewelry she had ever seen. It wasn't a necklace, bracelet, or even earrings. No, this was so much more than that.

Opening the clasp, Sage slipped it on and fastened it. It was stunning. Five strings of blue and clear gems set in gold stretched across her collarbone, connecting her shoulders in a swoop.

Spinning around to look at the back, she was surprised to find a collection of long strands of varied stones layered over her back. The top three were gathered with what Sage assumed was a pin with a large, oval, dark-blue stone surrounded by small clear ones.

The closer Sage looked at the elaborate piece, the more she realized that this was probably a collection created from necklaces and bracelets.

Sage thought what a clever woman Faith was. She not only created something unique and beautiful but something that she could easily take apart after tonight and turn into anything else she desired.

Sage was tempted to take it off and leave it at home. The value of the jewelry had to be more than Sage would earn over her lifetime, but another look in the mirror and she changed her mind. It made this outfit something special.

Sage allowed herself a moment more to admire the piece of jewelry that was now adorning her body. Somehow it felt as if her blue hair set off the blue around her neck and shoulders in a way that surely only she would notice. She twisted her long hair back into a low bun and allowed a few pieces of hair to fall around her face.

She put on some light blush and a touch of color on her lips, just enough to make her look radiant and beautiful for the night ahead.

As Sage stood back up and took a final look in the mirror, she felt ready for anything the ball would throw at her.

***

Sage emerged from the castle's hallway and stepped into the grand ballroom.

Piper had picked her up in a rented carriage at Faith's insistence. It made sense to Sage. She couldn't imagine how she would have made it to the castle without her dress' hem becoming filthy from the muddy streets.

From the moment she had arrived, Sage was immediately awestruck by the ballroom's grandeur—it was unlike anything she had ever seen. A stunning mix of marble and gold, with intricate patterns, decorated every wall.

Large crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, their light reflecting off the marble floor in a mesmerizing fashion. Along one side of the room stood an elegant white grand piano, and on the opposite were two large staircases leading up to a balcony that overlooked the entire room.

Fine linens, silverware, and ornate centerpieces filled with colorful fresh flowers, each more beautiful than the last, adorned the long tables along a third wall. Everywhere Sage looked, there seemed to be something new to admire; whether it was an exquisite set of chairs or a sculpture made entirely out of flowers, it seemed as if the designer had left no details overlooked.

"Are you ready?" Piper asked.

Their turn to be announced was coming up. Only two people stood in line in front of them.

Sage fidgeted with the gold on her skirt. "Not in the slightest. You?"

"I'm so nervous I think I may get sick," Piper laughed, holding her hand to the corset of her burgundy dress. Floral embroidery covered most of the dress in a variety of colors. The live flowers woven into her hair and delicate jewelry made her best friend appear as if she were a fairy.

"Come on," Sage said, lightly taking her arm. "We can do this. We aren't anyone that people will notice, and as soon as we get in, we can just enjoy the good food and people-watch!"

"I would love to dance too."

Sage laughed. "You can dance for both of us. It's best if I stay off the dance floor."

Together they walked forward, their names announced with a flourish, and descended the stairs. Sage could feel countless eyes watching her every move. Though her heart was beating faster than ever, Sage managed to keep her composure.

As soon as they reached the bottom of the steps, the next group was called, and Piper and Sage let out a unanimous sigh of relief.

The night was finally theirs to enjoy.

They found a spot to hide in the corner, where they could still see the grand entrance and the dances but remained hidden.

Piper started to relax as she observed the other guests. She pointed out the Charming Four on the other side of the ballroom.

They were in deep conversation with a group of men and women. The group laughed. Sage noted that the women placed their hands delicately on the men's arms as they did so, but not on the Charming Four.

She smiled to herself. It appeared her anti-love potions were working.

As the evening progressed, the two watched the people meandering around, and Sage couldn't help but feel forlorn for not being able to participate in the festivities. Although the ball was grand and beautiful, Sage felt a distinct longing as the other guests danced and laughed.

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