Page 1104 of One More Kiss

She shrugged. “Call it what you will. I’ll return momentarily.” With a flick of her wand and a flash, Renora disappeared in a mist of golden fairy dust.

I really needed to learn that trick. It would certainly come in handy tonight if anything were to go awry.

Before I completed that thought, Renora appeared again with a startled and somewhat green-faced Helga and Farina. I attempted to hold back a snicker. I assumed Fairy travel didn’t agree with them.

Farina was the first to stumble forward, while Helga fell flat onto the bed, gasping for breath. Okay, so I laughed a bit. “Are you two all right?”

“My Lady.” Farina took a shaky breath and gave Renora the side-eye. “All you had to do was ring for us. I feel as if I may… Oh, no.” She gagged a bit and then straightened. “I’m okay. A little warning next time, Renora. Is everything all right?”

I had to contain myself. She was obviously sick to her stomach. “Yes, I wanted to surprise you and Helga.” I glanced at the bed, where Helga was still splayed out, staring at the ceiling. “Yes, a proper warning next time. My apologies. Come sit at my dressing table.”

“What? But, my Lady?” Farina attempted to object, but I gave her a gentle push. “Go on now. This is for you. You have done so much for me. I want to give back.”

She tried to stand from the seat, and I set her back down. “Oh, but I mustn’t. It wouldn’t be proper.” Meanwhile, Renora was attempting to revive Helga. “Says whom? I’m to be Queen, correct?”

Farina nodded.

“All right then. I wish for you to be outfitted in a beautiful gown of your own, that is, if you want. I do not want you serving tonight, as you are my guest and friend.”

“My Lady, I…I don’t know what to say.” She stared at me through the mirror. “I’ve never… No one has ever.” She covered her face.”

I pulled her hands away and smiled. “Farina, you are special to me and Edan. It is up to you.”

“I cannot thank you enough for your kindness. My Lady, this is… thank you.”

“Renora will have you ready in no time at all and get you back to the ballroom.”

Her mouth opened and closed a few times before she spoke. “I shall walk this time.”

I chuckled. “Not a problem.” I glanced at Helga who was finally coming around. “Would you like to be my guest at the wedding as well? Renora can create a most fantastical gown for you.”

Helga rose from the bed and bowed before me. “My Lady, while I deeply appreciate the offer, I am needed to help guide the staff. Perhaps another time?”

I nodded with a smile. “Another time it is, then. You only have to say the word.”

“Thank you, my Lady. If it is all right with you, I would like to return to my duties now.” She peered at Renora. “I shall take the stairs.”

Renora and I tried not to laugh. “I do apologize for the unexpected Fairy travel. It can be a bit—”

“Vomit-inducing?” Helga offered with a raised brow.

“Yes!” Farina turned to face her. “I thought my dinner would resurface. It was unpleasant to say the least.”

“All right, ladies. There shall be no more Fairy travel.” Renora helped Helga to the door. “My apologies. But we are running short on time. If you change your mind later, though, please find me, and I’ll do whatever you like without the travel.” She winked as Helga fled out of my chamber door.

I believed Renora may have scared the staff a teensy bit. Although, it was funny…

And with a wave of the fairy’s wand, Farina now wore a pink gown matching Renora’s. I had to stop her from crying, as her makeup was magicked as well.

This sort of magic was fun. It was like playing dress up as a little girl, only this time, it was for my wedding.

Farina took my hand and squeezed, and the three of us walked down the spiral staircase toward the festivities.

It was now time to meet my bridegroom, my prince, and marry the man of my dreams.

It was time to live the life I’d only dreamt of.

Curses be damned.

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