The wedding ceremony had started. The sun was hanging low in the sky now, and Cremia stood stock still. She had already cried today. But she watched her two dearest friends marching down the aisle and knew that she was truly happy for them. She wanted the best for Kafei. And she wanted the world for Anju. She threw flower petals and rice as the ceremony closed, and as they stepped back inside the town to truly celebrate a little nagging thought crept into her mind, triggered by a sideways glance from Anju's mother.
For years there had been suspicions that Cremia was in love with Kafei. Cremia knew now, even, that Anju's mother had actually accused him of it when he returned to them. Cremia thought she was a fool - stubborn and ornery. And ignorant. Because though Cremia loved Kafei, it was platonic in every way. She wasn't enticed by the sheen of his hair or the depth of his eyes. That was for Anju. She was enticed however, when Anju spoke of him. How they had shared their first kiss, and how she'd admired his humor and his form. Oh, Cremia wasn't just enticed. She was jealous.
She saw Anju separated from her husband, and steal away to the inn for a moment of calm. Cremia followed. As Anju drew out yet another bottle of wine, Cremia closed the front door of the inn.
"I'll be right there," Anju called.
"It's just me," Cremia replied.
"Oh! Cremia! I'm so glad you came tonight. I know you're always nervous to leave the cows."
"I wouldn't miss this for the world, Anju," Cremia replied. Though Anju reached for the door, when she glanced back at her friend she paused. "I want to talk to you for a moment."
"Of course," Anju replied, setting the jug on the counter. Cremia leaned against it.
"You look beautiful," Cremia stated. It was true. Though she'd left her mask with Kafei, the stunning white gown looked flawless on her slim form. Anju waited, knowing she hadn't reached her point. "I just want you to know that I am very happy for you." And there was the shadow in Anju's eyes. The fear. "I can't deny that my feelings were a problem for me tonight." Anju reached for her friend's hand.
"I'm sorry that I took him from you," she said. And while, perhaps, a jealous woman would have scoffed, Cremia knew it was genuine.
"You didn't take him from me. We never wanted each other. I never wanted him and he never wanted me." And then Anju was confused.
"But -" her question was cut short. Cremia broke the space between them and placed a gentle kiss on Anju's lips. It was innocent, Cremia knew Anju didn't feel the same. It had never even occured to her.
"Don't worry, Anju. This has never been about him. I just want you to know that your friendship still means everything to me. Whatever reservations I've had, I have truly loved watching you love him. It reminds me that love like this exists. It lets me know that this is how it's supposed to be. You would do anything for him. And more importantly, he would do anything for you. I'm going to talk to him in a bit. And let him know that if he ever hurts you, he'll have me and Romani's bow to deal with." Cremia smiled warmly.
"I never knew."
"I know. And it made it easier for me at times. Now go," Cremia said. "Get out there and tell him you love him. Enjoy your night. You guys are truly meant to be together." Anju hugged Cremia tightly before moving on. The door closed gently behind her and Cremia wrapped her arms around herself.
The party continued, and soon Cremia found herself sitting next to Anju's grandmother.
"Did you tell her, dearie?" she asked. Cremia stilled, looking at the ancient woman.
"Wh-what do you mean?"
"You know what I'm asking," she replied with her gentle laugh. "I hope you did. I know she doesn't feel the same. But for you. For you, I hope you told her." Cremia smiled, looking toward the happy couple - dancing now. She felt calm, now. And strong.
