Julia spun around in front of the mirror in the dressmakers, the white lace and silk of the dress flowed gracefully to the floor. The silk and lace sleeves were fitted to her long arms. The lace covered bodice was fitted, showing off her slim frame. The back was done up by, what appeared to be, a long row of pearly buttons, but actually covered a clasp locker to make things easier. The skirt was a full circle that flared out into a short train. Julia smiled at her reflection.

"Come on out and show me how it looks!" Emily called, excitedly.

Julia took a deep breath and pushed back the curtain. She avoided Emily's gaze, feeling suddenly very self-conscious. What if it wasn't nice enough?

"Oh," she heard Emily say softly. Emily walked around her and took the whole thing in. Then, to Julia's dismay, she started laughing. "You going to cause a scandal in a white dress."

Julia rolled her eyes. "I've never cared for the whole widows can't wear white."

"Of course you wouldn't." Emily said putting a hand on Julia's shoulder.

"But how is it?"

"It's beautiful." Emily said fully taking in the dress

"You really think so?"

"Of course. You look stunning. Now let's see what it looks like with the veil on!"

Julia smiled brightly as Emily went over and picked up the long veil that was trimmed with lace. She carried it over to Julia and pinned it into her hair and draped it around her arms. She turned Julia around to face the mirror. Julia let out a little gasp. She giggled a bit and began to twirl around. Emily laughed as she watched Julia spin.

"You seem to be feeling a lot better now.""

"I am."

"You're going to be a beautiful bride, Julia."

"Thank you! I really hope William loves it."

"I don't see how he couldn't."

"What time is it now?"

Checking her watch, Emily told her it was almost three. 'Have we really spent nearly two hours at a dress shop?' Emily thought to herself.

"Oh we have to get going so you can try on your dress!"

"My dress?" Emily asked her confused. When she realised what Julia meant, she almost started crying. "You want me to be a bridesmaid?"

"No silly, my maid of honor! You've done so much for me it's the least I can do."

"Oh Julia."

Emily hugged her, tight. Julia returned it wrapping both her arms around the small brunette.

"Wait, what about your sister?"

"Oh Ruby knows. She doesn't mind, she's not able to do it anyway, she's not in town until the day before."

Emily hugged her again.

"Thank you!"

"Come on help me out of this and we can go!"

"Of course."