“I know it is beautiful,” she said.
“You certainly are, my darling,” said her mother from the doorway.
Cecily waited for Greta to finish doing up the dress. Then, she turned to face her mother, opening her arms.
“Thank you, Mama,” she said, nestling her face into her mother’s shoulder.
The Countess kissed her daughter on the cheek. Then, she pulled back, taking one of Cecily’s hands and placing a box in her palm.
Cecily felt around the box until she found the lip of the lid. She opened it and fondled the jewelry inside. It felt like pearls, and she gasped.
“A pearl necklace?” she asked.
The Countess squeezed her hand in confirmation.
“Your grandmother’s pearl necklace, to be exact,” she said. “I have been saving it for my girls to get married. I am passing it to you now, darling.”
Cecily was overcome with emotion as her mother helped her put on the necklace. When it was clasped, she hugged her mother again.
“I am honoured, Mama,” she said, kissing the Countess’s cheek. Then, she turned toward Greta and Agnes. “Thank you all for everything you have done to make today so wonderful.”
The three women surrounded her, putting their arms around her. She could tell they were all crying, just as she was.
“Never forget how much you are loved by your family, darling,” the countess said, her voice thick with her own emotions. “No matter what lies ahead, we will always be here for you.”
Agnes sniffled and squeezed her sister tightly.
“We absolutely will,” she said.
Greta held Cecily’s hand.
“I am honoured to join you on this new part of your life’s journey,” she said. “I will serve you loyally and lovingly, all the days of my life.”
Cecily sobbed and released the other two women to squeeze Greta.
“Thank you,” she said.
The Countess took both her daughter’s hands and kissed her forehead.
“Are you ready, dearest?” she asked.
Cecily nodded and smiled as Agnes wiped her tears away for her.
“Yes,” she said. “I believe that I am.”
The women walked down the stairs to where Lord Dervinshire was waiting for Cecily outside the drawing room. She hugged her father as her mother and sister went to take their seats.
“You look wonderful, my dear,” he said, kissing her cheek. “I am so proud of the lady you have become.”
Cecily grinned, returning her father’s kiss.
“Thank you, Papa,” she said. “None of this would be possible without you. I love you so much.”
The earl linked his arm with hers, patting her hand gently.
“And I love you, Daughter,” he said. “Shall we?”
Cecily took a deep breath and nodded.
