Page 1103 of One More Kiss

Chapter18

I staredin wonder at the beautiful white gown Renora had created for me. When she’d said she wanted to make the most wondrous of wedding dresses the kingdom had ever beheld, I’d thought she’d been speaking in jest.

I appeared every bit a queen, in layer upon layer of the finest white silk, a sweetheart neckline with inlaid diamonds and pearls that flowed down to a fitted waistline. The bell-shaped skirt was adorned just as the bodice, and the veil had a train that seemed to go on for miles. Silken belled sleeves and elbow-length white gloves completed the ensemble. She’d even pulled my hair up into an elegant bun, leaving wispy curls to fan around my face.

Farina knocked on the door and walked into my chambers. “Oh, my Lady. You look stunning! I’d thought perhaps I could assist you tonight, but it seems…you’re as perfect as a picture.” She swiped an errant tear from her cheek.

“Farina, please don’t cry. If you cry, then I’ll cry.” I glanced toward a beaming Renora. “We wouldn’t want to redo my makeup, now, would we?”

“No, my Lady. I am so pleased for this happy day, or evening rather. Just wait until you see the ballroom!” She covered her mouth. “I’ve forgotten myself. I did not mean to shout.”

I carefully picked up the front of my dress and went to her. “Farina, dear, do not ever feel you have to contain yourself around me. I’m still Tatiana—the same fairy you’ve known for ten years and chased around the castle when I was a child. If you’re excited, be excited. Tell me all about it. I want to hear.”

“Me, too!” Renora joined in. “I’m certain it is spectacular, even if it was planned on short notice.”

Farina bowed her head, attempting to hide the blush creeping into her cheeks. “Yes, my Lady. It is remarkable. We were even able to obtain an ice statue of a swan from the princess in the neighboring kingdom. She sends her best wishes. A glass slipper was gifted as well.” She clapped her hand over her mouth. “That was to be a surprise. I’m so terrible at these things and get ahead of myself. I am so excited for you to see everything in all its splendor.”

I clutched her hands in mine. “Oh, Farina. Thank you. We couldn’t have made this possible without you and your connections.” I winked, and she blushed again.

“I best get back to the ballroom if there is nothing I can do for you here, my Lady. Guests shall be arriving soon, and Prince Edan—” She cut herself off.

I grinned. I simply loved Farina. She could get me out of the sourest of moods and back into the moment of my union—our union. “What about Prince Edan?”

“Nothing, my Lady. You shall see.” She gave me a mischievous grin. “Wickedly handsome. That is all I am going to say.” Then she dashed out of the door with a small wave.

“I adore her!” Renora beamed. “She’s delightful.”

“I know. She’s been around for years, always so helpful and generous.” A thought occurred to me. “Renora, you made this gorgeous dress for me with a few flicks of your wand. Would it be too much trouble to do the same for Farina? I would love to see her wearing a gown. Oh, and Helga, too, if she desires?”

Renora gave me a devilish smile. “As you wish, my Lady.”

I swatted her arm playfully. “You are bad.”

“I know.” She chuckled.

“And for yourself. You cannot be a bride’s maid wearing a black cloak.” I lifted a brow, daring her to question me.

Her eyes widened and tears slipped down her face. “You…you wish for me to be your bride’s maid?”

I placed my hand on hers. “My Matron of Honor, in fact. If you’ll accept.”

“Will I?” She nearly danced. “Of course I will. I’d be honored. Tatiana, you’ve no idea how much this means to me. As you know, we, as godmothers, have never…” She trailed off, wiping her face. “You’ve made me so happy.”

“Well, you’d best get on with it, then.” I couldn’t help but smile and feel grateful that she’d returned to my life once again, even under the circumstances. I’d always loved her so. Renora had been like a second mother to me, until she’d disappeared.

“Is there a color you prefer? Oh, I know… How about I match your beautiful wings: blue and gold? Yes?” Renora’s feet were barely touching the floor, as her own golden wings fluttered happily behind her.

“Absolutely. That would be perfect.” I went to hug her, and she backed up. “No, young lady. I worked too hard on that dress. No touchy-touchy. Not until later.”

I burst out laughing. “Yes, ma’am.”

With a twirl and a flick of her wand, Renora’s black cloak disappeared, and she now wore a gown of blue that draped over one shoulder, with a golden-winged design that appeared to be hand sewn throughout. It was fitted at the waist and flowed like a waterfall down her long, thin frame. It was breathtaking. Her chestnut hair was pulled into an elegant chignon, highlighting her sharp cheekbones.

“Beautiful! Now for Farina and Helga. I wonder if there is any way to call them to my chambers without alarming anyone.”

Renora’s eyes gleamed. “Leave it to me, darling. I’ve been playing the game of intrigue longer than you’ve been alive.”

I giggled. “You make it seem as though it’s a game of spying or snatching them away from their duties with none the wiser.”

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