You Are Mine (Mine #1)(89)

“Yes,” Katherine says. “I planned some of your gowns to help bring it out.

“Really?” Bethany twirls me around to check. “Subtle, but there. Why the sudden interest?”

The room warms. “No reason.”

Katherine's making a few adjustments when Waverly returns. “He said he'll be here soon.”

I look away from her grin. It's not that I don't want her to be happy, I do. It just hurts. I try to shove the feelings away.

“Hurry,” Katherine says. “Get in front of the mirror, it's already been thirteen minutes, it could change at anytime.”

Once in front of the mirror, I can't believe my reflection. The dress is perfect. And then it changes.

One moment I'm wearing a green dress, the next I'm in a dress the color of pearls. Definitely not dark enough, but I've never seen a color so suited to me. Tiny, clear jewels are sewn on the full skirt and snug bodice, making it glitter in the light. The cap sleeves flow into the square neckline. The only problem is my visible engagement mark. Despite that, I'm stunning.

“You can wear just this one for your wedding tomorrow if you want,” Katherine says. My wedding was supposed to be tomorrow. With planning the ball, I almost forgot. Just as well. “I know women typically wear black, but the Envadi wear white so you'll have an excuse. When I asked Zade, he said it would be a simple spell to unwind the dresses into three separate ones again.”

I pinch my lips together. I would have made the most spectacular bride Chardonia has ever seen. But it's just as well. I don't want to get married. Zade deserves to live, even if it means I have to give up everything.

“You're an artist, Katherine.” I embrace her, taking what comfort I can.

“Don't get tears on it.” She pulls back and holds out a handkerchief.

Accepting the proffered cloth, I laugh. It comes out sharper than I meant. I dab my face dry.

“You look wonderful,” Bethany says. “Katherine, you're talented. It suits her. Sit down Serena, and we'll finish getting ready.”

I comply, letting them fuss over my hair and face paint. The paint is as light as I like it, if I have wear it. None of the white paint, but a shine to my lips and kohl to my eyes. My hair is twisted and coiled and puffed in a style like none I've ever seen. I can't hate a woman who can do this to my hair. Though at this moment I wouldn't mind if she was back in Envado.

I sigh. “Thank you, everyone. You're the best of friends.” I turn to Katherine. “I wish you could come with us.”

“All I want is to see how everyone likes the gowns I created. Zade showed me a nook on the second floor where I can watch the party without being seen.”

“I'll have to be the jealous one then. This ball will be a better experience than last time I'm sure, but I wouldn't mind watching instead.” I try to hold back my creeping emotions. “I'll make sure to bring you something to snack on.”

Katherine says, “I admit, I've been wanting to try some of the Envadi treats ever since Waverly talked of them.”

“I'll be sure cook sends some,” Waverly says. “You'll be wanting to dine in Envado every night after this.”

A knock sounds. I jump from my chair. As Waverly moves to open the door, Bethany gives me a half smile.

“Is it time?” I ask.

Katherine fluffs my skirt out. “Back to the white. Perfect timing. He's already seen it, but it will be better with you wearing it.” She nods to Waverly who opens the door.

Zade stands at the entrance in a suit of black and a pearl colored cravat and folded handkerchief in his left pocket, same color as my dress. I realize he's been observing me while I've been perusing him. Heat floods my cheeks. I glance at Waverly.

“Everyone out,” she says.

Anxious to have the man she loves free of me.

Katherine gives my arm a squeeze. “You'll do great.”

“And don't forget to add sparkles to her hair,” Waverly tells Zade.

Really, something so simple seems unimportant at the moment, but he agrees.

“Don't forget to have them announce you,” Bethany says. “We'll make sure everyone is there and things are going smoothly.” How smoothly will they go with the events that are to come? “Smile Serena. And don't scare everyone with it this time. Oh, and plan your entrance to have your dress change to this one shortly after you arrive.”

“It will,” Zade says.

“Thank you,” she replies and they leave.

The room is back to being hollow, except this time Zade is here. I scrutinize my gloves, pearly to match my dress. Watching the sparkles in them is easier than looking at him. There's a warm glow to the fabric I didn't notice before. A sort of happiness not matched by my feelings.

I clear my throat. “Would you like to sit?”

“Would you?”

“Don't want to crease Katherine's dress before anyone has seen it.”

He steps closer to me. I resist the urge to step back. “Are you ready?”

No. “I'll manage.”

For a moment, he says nothing. He shifts like he's going to come closer, but then moves to stand by a chair, resting a hand on the back of it. “Have you thought about what I asked?”