Page 187 of A Crown of Tears and Treason
“Adara?”
“Yes?”
“Please stop trying to cheer me up, you’re making me more nervous.”
Adara huffed a sigh that sounded the tiniest bit like a startled laugh. “Keep your wits about you.”
“I intend to.” I loosed a long breath. I probed the connection with Zandyr. He sent another gentle wave, almost caressing my spine. “I know how I got here, Adara. And I intend to be a great queen. Eventually.”
Adara nodded, but said nothing else, as her eyes trailed back to the window. As if she was waiting for some unforeseen enemy.
I returned my gaze back to the mirror. I wasn’t the same Evie that had gotten ready for her first marriage. And if someone–or something–attacked today, I would be ready. I would have agroom on my side who wouldn’t hide behind my skirts to save his own hide. No guard stood at my door to make sure I didn’t run away or reveal secrets.
This wedding was different.
Iwas different.
And my future would also be so very different than the one I would have endured by Fabrian’s side.
By the time Leesa was done, the top of my hair stood at least a foot above my scalp. Pearls were strewn through the strands, some hanging in lovely strands across the many curls and pleats she’d wrestled my stubborn locks into.
It took the strength of Adara, Leesa, and myself to get me in that wedding dress.
It sat snug against me, as if someone had taken my measurements during the night; I had to congratulate Zavoya, she truly had an eye for the beautiful trinkets of this world.
I tried not to think about how someone had also studied me to make the imposter look exactly like me.
The fabric, sturdy and stubborn as it was, felt wonderful against my body.
A long, embroidered train started from my shoulders and ended a few generous feet behind me.
The neckline scooped lower than I expected, putting whatever chest I didn’t have on display, and letting the ruby jewels hanging from my neck shine.
I shuddered a breath as I glanced in the mirror one last time.
I looked regal.
With Adara, Leesa, and Goose’s help, I slowly made my way downstairs. The veranda had been decorated with plump roses and clusters of purple flowers I couldn’t name.
“This is beautiful.” I gently floated my hand above the rows of garlands, careful not to disturb them.The pile of gifts was spreading, countless letters of congratulations placed on top.
I patted Zandyr’s letter waiting in my dress pocket. I had controlled myself and not opened it, no matter how hard curiosity had clawed at me, and I was sure he hadn’t either.
Why read words when we could feel each other?
As I neared the steps, I squared my shoulders.
This day would be exhilarating.
Exhausting.
Exciting.
After surviving my first wedding, the snake, the Serpent assassins, and the masked figures, gods forgive me, but I felt invincible. Ready to start the next chapter of my life.
With Zandyr at my side.
Together, we could truly be unstoppable. I felt that potential, connection or not.
