This is going to be the last update for a while (I think) until
I'm done with exams. I might write a bit more when I take breaks
from studying but I'm not making any promises. Thanks for
understanding, and for your wonderful reviews! You're all so
kind! Also, the country that Prince Elios is from, Aftapati,
is Greek for Illusion, where Elios from the series is from.
This posting is a revision. Thanks to Amanda for her help with
the French grammar!
Ash
Switched at Birth - Chapter 9
It was a memorable birthday. After the ballet, Darien and I had
taken a walk along the Champs-Elysees. Then, we had a late lunch
at a quaint little café. We were currently in the royal jet,
heading back to Paradeisos.
"I wish we could have stayed a little longer in Paris," I said
wistfully.
"We will go to Paris again," Darien assured me.
"Soon?" I asked hopefully.
Darien laughed and kissed my hand. "Soon enough," he promised.
"But as for today, we must get you back to the palace in time for
your birthday party."
I smiled. "I think that any preconceived notions I have about the
term 'birthday party' are going to be blown out of the water after
tonight."
Darien laughed again. "They may very well be," he agreed. "But how
do you know that it's not just a simple dinner with our two families?"
I raised a skeptical eyebrow. "Because I have learned that, after
living in Paradeisos for two and a half months, the word 'simple' is
not in the royal vocabulary," I replied. I was referring, of course,
to the elaborate balls, the fabulous dresses, and even the meals I
ate everyday.
Darien grinned. "You are very perceptive, my love."
It was all I could do to keep from shivering when Darien called me
'my love'. It suddenly hit me that I was engaged to the man of my
dreams. And he was a prince. Could my life be more of a fairytale?
Darien interrupted my thoughts with a thorough kiss. "You had that
look on your face again," he informed me.
I was about to reply when the captain informed us that we would be
descending shortly. When we had landed, there were two limousines
waiting for us; one for me and one for Darien, I was told.
"Why aren't you coming with me?" I asked.
Darien caressed my cheek reassuringly. "I need to get ready for your
party before I join you," he replied. "We'll see each other in a few
hours. Don't worry." He escorted me to my limo and kissed my cheek
before going to his own car.
When the chauffeur closed the door, I leaned back in my seat and sighed
happily. Life certainly didn't get any better than this.
***************************************************************************************************
As soon as I arrived back at the palace, I was accosted by Mlle Luna,
who practically dragged me up to my chamber.
"What is the matter?" I gasped, trying no to stumble as she pulled on
my arm.
"We have only two hours to get you ready for your birthday," Mlle Luna
replied.
As gracefully as I could, I wrested my arm back from Mlle Luna's grasp.
"Only two hours?" I repeated dryly. "Then I suppose we'll have to rush."
Mlle Luna seemed to miss my sarcastic tone and flashed me a grateful
smile. "I'm so glad we're on the same wavelength," she told me. She
practically pushed me into my chamber and followed in behind me. "Lita!
La salle de bains est-elle prete?" (Is the bathroom ready?)
Lita emerged from my bathroom and curtseyed. "Oui, Mademoiselle," she
replied.
Mlle Luna bustled me into my bathroom and dragged Lita along on the way.
"You must hurry, Your Majesty," she insisted.
I raised a skeptical eyebrow at the scene before me. While my bathroom
was rather large, I had absolutely no intention of cleaning myself in
the presence of Lita, Mlle Luna, the royal hairdresser, the royal
manicurist, and the royal make-up artist. I shook my head. "All right,
if today is not your birthday, then you will have to leave," I announced.
"Your Majesty?" Mlle Luna asked, confused.
It was all I could to not to roll my eyes. "Everyone, out," I commanded.
"I have no desire to take a shower in the presence of five other people."
"But Your Majesty..." Mlle Luna protested.
"Everyone, out!" I repeated loudly.
Everyone nodded and curtseyed meekly, and beat a hasty retreat. I sighed
with relief and hurried to lock the door behind them. Quickly, I stripped
out of my clothes and took a nice hot shower, using my favorite body wash
and shampoo. When I was finished, I wrapped my hair in a towel and put my
robe on. I exited my bathroom to find Mlle Luna going through my closet,
trying to find a dress for tonight. Poor Lita was being buried under my
clothes.
I shook my head and chuckled softly as I headed to the oaken wardrobe
where I kept my formal wear. Opening the large double doors, I pulled
out a light pink dress from the collection of ball gowns that Mlle
Meiou and I had designed together. It was sleeveless, with a square
collar, a back that laced up, and a floor-length full skirt that
trailed slightly in the back.
"Mlle Luna, I will be wearing this tonight," I said, holding the gown
up for her to see. "Lita, if you could collect my jewelry from the
bathroom, my pink satin pumps, and my white opera gloves."
Lita set my other clothing on my bed and curtseyed. "Of course, Your
Majesty."
Mlle Luna nodded and snapped her fingers loudly. "Hair, make-up and
nails," she practically shouted.
I gritted my teeth and tried to smile graciously. "Mlle Luna, please,"
I said patiently. "I do believe that Lita's help will be sufficient
tonight. She has helped me get ready for a great many events."
Mlle Luna looked doubtful. "Are you sure?" she asked.
I nodded. "I'm sure you're needed elsewhere," I told her, not trying to
sound condescending.
Mlle Luna hesitated. "Well, there is still the matter with the food
tonight..." she said, almost to herself.
I put a friendly arm around her shoulders and guided her to the door.
"Then you must take care of that first," I declared. "The comfort of
tonight's guests should be our top priority."
Mlle Luna nodded. "Of course, Your Majesty," she said. With a quick
curtsey, she was gone.
"Finally," I muttered to myself. I turned to address the hairdresser,
make-up artist and manicurist. "My hair needs to be dried and styled.
A simple chignon will be sufficient. Only minimal make-up to match my
dress is necessary. And my nails are fine for tonight."
"But Your Highness," the manicurist protested.
I held up my exquisitely manicured hands. "Please," I told her. "My
nails have not been damaged since yesterday, as you can see."
She scrutinized my nails, and then nodded, mollified. "Very well,
Your Highness," she relented.
An hour later, I was ready. My hair was swept up away from my face
and neck, drawing attention to the necklace and earrings that Darien
had given me. I wore a tiny bit of eye shadow, blush, and some
pearly-pink lipstick. Darien's bracelet was linked around my gloved
wrist, and my new engagement ring was securely on my left ring finger.
I thanked my assistants graciously, and excused them all, except for
Lita, who stayed behind to help me with the skirt of my gown as soon
as M. Artemis came to escort me to see my parents and Darien's family.
King Stephen and Queen Gaia were making small talk with my parents
when I walked in with M. Artemis. Darien looked like he was pacing
back and forth on the plush carpet, and he was checking his watch
every few seconds. M. Artemis cleared his throat somewhat theatrically
in order to get everyone's attention. Five heads turned to look at me.
My eyes widened slightly when I realized that my parents and Darien's
parents were all smiling broadly.
"Princess Serenity," he announced, presenting me to them.
I gathered the skirt of my gown in my hands and performed a low curtsey.
"Your Majesties," I said demurely.
Queen Gaia decided to dispense with protocol and swept me up into a tight
hug, while King Stephen grabbed my right hand and pumped it
enthusiastically, surprising the hell out of me. I think I actually gave
M. Artemis a panicked look.
"Your Majesties...!" I stammered, startled.
"Oh, we're absolutely overjoyed that you've agreed to marry our son,"
Queen Gaia gushed.
"Ecstatic," King Stephen added. "You should see our Darien these days,
walking around in a love-struck daze..."
I threw an amused look at Darien, who had the grace to blush.
"And you're such a stunning young woman," Queen Gaia continued. "We can't
wait for our grandchildren. They're going to be absolutely beautiful!"
Now it was my turn to blush. "Of course that won't be for several years,
you understand," I told them, my cheeks crimson. Out of the corner of
my eye, I could see Darien covering his face with his hand and groaning
softly. I heard a tiny whimper and saw that Mother was trying to choke
back happy tears. Apparently, the mere mention of the word
'grandchildren' was enough to set her off. Father was patting Mother's
hand consolingly, but I could see that his eyes were wet as well.
What the hell was going on? I wondered, bewildered. It was as if I had
stepped into the Twilight Zone. Well, more so than usual, anyway. As
gracefully as I could, I extricated myself from Queen Gaia's grasp,
only to be engulfed in a hug from Father.
"Father..." I couldn't help squirming a little. Oh come on; don't tell
me you've actually enjoyed it when all of your aunts and uncles decide
to crack your ribs because they're SO happy to see you. I rest my case.
But I'm getting off-topic again. Sorry about that. "The guests are
waiting," I protested lightly, throwing M. Artemis, the stickler for
protocol, a pleading look. My jaw nearly hit the floor when all he did
was shrug helplessly.
Thankfully, Darien stepped in to rescue me. "Your Majesty, I believe
it is time for dinner," he said. "It wouldn't do to keep everyone
waiting."
At that, Father finally released his hold on me. I sighed with relief
and smoothed out the front of my gown. I gave Darien a grateful look
as he held out his hand to escort me to the grand ballroom. We had to
wait a few minutes while our parents regained their composure, but
eventually, we made our entrance.
I had to remind myself to keep my mouth closed as I looked at the
beautifully decorated room. Darien had apparently given the palace
staff a few hints on the color scheme. Swaths of pastel tulle were
draped around the ceiling and walls. The tables were set with pastel
tablecloths and napkins, and a huge arrangement of pastel roses
served as the centerpiece. At each place setting, there was a single
rose in a crystal bud vase. Along with the soft pinks, peaches,
blues, lavenders, yellows and greens in the room, there were accents
of white and gold, Paradeisos' royal colors, everywhere in the room.
"This way, Your Majesties," M. Artemis informed us.
Darien and I took our place at the end of a red carpet to await the
receiving line. Poor Darien had to stand with me while our parents
were allowed to sit in plush velvet chairs that had been set up
behind us. I smiled graciously and waited for the gift presentations
to begin.
After about two hours, I was starting to fidget from standing in the
receiving line for so long. Hundreds of guests bowed or curtseyed
before me and presented me with a gift from their country. I had
already acquired fourteen horses, twenty ceremonial weapons, six
dozen Faberge eggs, about a hundred other knick-knacks, and enough
clothes and jewelry to last me until my next birthday. My face was
tired from smiling so much, and I was starving.
A small cough brought my attention back to the present. I blinked
once and looked forward. I saw the top of a white-blond head. I
looked down slightly and saw a young boy standing there. He couldn't
have been more than seven years old, dressed in what looked like a
miniature military dress uniform. Behind him was a couple who was
obviously the boy's parents.
"Prince Elios of Aftapati," M. Artemis announced.
"Happy birthday, Your Majesty," Prince Elios whispered.
I couldn't fight the smile that spread across my face. I decided to
break protocol and knelt down so that I was eye-level with him.
"Thank you very much, Prince Elios."
He turned and nodded slightly to an aide, who presented me with a
large crystal sculpture. It was breathtaking. Each line was
flawlessly carved to represent a dozen roses in different stages
of growth, from bud to full bloom, in a crystal vase edged with
gold.
I could feel my eyes fill with tears at the sight of the beautiful
gift, and I had to cover my mouth to stifle my gasp of wonder. I
felt Darien touch my shoulder and then he asked if I was all right.
With my free hand, I covered his hand and I nodded.
I think my reaction scared Prince Elios. "Don't you like it?" he
asked worriedly. "I'm sorry I made you cry."
I shook my head and wiped away the tears that spilled down my
cheeks. "I think it's beautiful, Prince Elios. Thank you."
That made Prince Elios beam. "You're welcome." He bowed.
I looked up hopefully at his parents, who smiled at me and nodded.
Smiling back at them, I leaned forward to give Prince Elios a chaste
kiss on the cheek. When I pulled back, I saw that the young prince
was blushing, but smiling happily at me. I smiled back at him. My
smile became wider when I realized that Elios was the last to present
his gift. "Would you like to join our table during dinner?" I asked.
Elios turned to his parents with a hopeful look in his eyes. His
father nodded his approval. Elios turned back to me with a happy
smile on his angelic little face. I held my hand out and he placed
his smaller gloved hand in mine. I looped my other hand through
Darien's arm and the three of us headed to our table for dinner.
I could hear the cameras going crazy with their clicking as we
walked away.
Elios was very well behaved for a child of his age. I suppose that I
shouldn't have been surprised, considering he was brought up at court.
He ate very delicately and neatly, and he only spoke when he was
spoken to. Don't misunderstand, I don't advocate the adage that
children should be seen and not heard, but I've been to formal
dinners before with children and the things they did made you want to
cringe. When I was a few years younger, I nearly kissed my parents'
feet when they told me that I was allowed to sit at the 'grown-up'
table.
Dinner was absolutely delicious. We started out with shrimp cocktail,
followed by small bowls of consommé. Then, we were served goblets of
sherbet to clear our palates. As we ate, an orchestra played soft
music in the background. Then, the waiters began distributing the
main course, which consisted of lobster salad, saffron risotto, and
whipped potatoes with truffles and cream.
When it was time for dessert, four waiters rolled out a large birthday
cake on a cart. I had to bite back a 'whoa'. It was white and square,
with pastel icing flowers everywhere. Written on the cake were the
words 'Happy 16th Birthday, Princess Serenity!"
"It's lovely," I said, smiling widely. Someone handed me a knife and I
made the first ceremonial cut amid camera flashes and applause. I
handed the knife back and then sat down to wait while the cake was
distributed. Moments later, a slice of cake was placed in front of me.
Soon, everyone had a piece, and they were waiting for me to start. I
picked up my fork and cut into my dessert. The white icing covered
five layers of chocolate sponge cake that were light and airy, and
practically melted in my mouth. I gave Darien a tiny smile, which
he returned, and continued eating.
When everyone had finished eating and the dishes had been cleared away,
the orchestra increased in volume, inviting people to dance. I started
to turn to Darien with a hopeful look in my eyes, when he subtly motioned
for me to look on my other side. I turned my head slightly and saw Elios
watching the dancers longingly.
"Prince Elios, would you like to dance?" I asked politely, knowing that it
was improper for the woman to ask. But I also knew that Elios would be too
shy to ask me himself.
Elios smiled up at me and nodded happily. We stood up and headed to the
dance floor, hand in hand. The orchestra and the dancers stopped to watch
us as we stepped onto the wood-paneled floor. I placed my right hand in
Elios' and my left hand on his shoulder, while he placed his other hand at
my waist. I was a bit taller than him (okay, a lot) but once the music
started again, we were able to dance pretty easily to the moderately paced
music.
When the song was over, Elios and I were greeted to the sound of thunderous a
pplause, while the orchestra started another song. I curtseyed to him and he
bowed back to me. He took my hand and was about to lead me back to our table,
when Darien approached us. The music stopped again, and I almost rolled my
eyes at the pauses that the orchestra was making. I know that it was a sign
of respect, but I'm sure that they weren't being paid to gawk at us between
dances.
"May I?" he asked, while bowing to Elios.
Elios bowed back to him. "Of course, Your Majesty," he replied, placing my
hand inside Darien's outstretched one.
I curtseyed again to Elios and then followed Darien to the dance floor. He
placed his other hand on my waist and once the music started again, we
started to waltz. He kept a respectable distance from me, even during the
numerous turns and promenades we performed. Even though I wanted to gaze
into Darien's eyes, etiquette demanded that I look at his shoulder, which I
had always found to be a ridiculous rule. I mean, how were you supposed to
know if your partner was enjoying the dance if you were staring at their
jacket the entire time? So as much as I enjoyed dancing with my fiancé, I
was looking forward for the song to end at the same time. Unfortunately for
me, the orchestra decided to play the really, REALLY long version of the
Blue Danube Waltz. I'm talking over ten minutes.
"I need some air after this," I murmured under my breath, trying not to
move my lips too much. I lifted my eyes briefly to Darien's face and I saw
him nod almost imperceptibly. I felt his hand squeezed mine for a moment
and then, as if nothing had happened, we continued to dance.
Finally, the song was over, and I curtseyed to Darien and then the guests
that were watching us, while he did the same, except that he bowed. We
headed towards the doors that lead to the terrace, and a pair of servants
rushed to open them for us. As soon as we stepped outside, I heard a loud
click as the doors were closed and a loud swishing sound. Darien and I
turned around to see that the drapes to the windows of the terrace had
been pulled shut.
Darien smiled down at me and lifted my hand to his lips. "Alone at last,"
he whispered after brushing his lips across the back of my hand. Then,
he leaned down to kiss me gently. When he pulled away, he had a content
expression on his face. "I've wanted to do that all night," he told me.
I reached up and played with the dark hair at the nape of his neck. "So
have I," I replied, smiling back at him. "Thank you for rescuing me just
now."
"It was my pleasure," Darien told me. "It was the least I could do,
considering how little help I was when you were announced to my parents."
I couldn't help giggling a little at the memory. "That was
certainly...odd, wouldn't you say?"
"Odd," Darien echoed teasingly. "That's one way of putting it."
"And how would you put it?" I inquired, raising an interested eyebrow.
"Utterly bizarre," he replied, grinning. "I thought I was hallucinating."
I laughed outright at that. I was about to say something when Darien's
lips descended upon mine and kissed me passionately.
When he pulled away, we were both a little breathless. "You have a
beautiful laugh," he told me.
I blushed and looked down a little. "Thank you," I replied.
Darien's hand came under my chin and tilted my head up. "Have I made you
uncomfortable?" he asked concernedly.
I smiled reassuringly and shook my head. "No, it's just that it's been a
while since I've really laughed," I explained.
"While you were in the United States?" Darien guessed.
I nodded. "Yes."
Darien wrapped his arms around me and held me close. "I'm so sorry that
you haven't been as happy here as you were in America."
I shook my head and looked up at him. "You have made me incredibly happy,"
I assured him. "You are one of a few people who have made me feel lucky to
be here."
Darien smiled when he heard that. "I'm glad to hear that."
"When we get married...can I invite my friends from America?" I asked him
hesitantly.
Darien nodded. "Of course," he told me. "You can invite whomever you wish."
I wrapped my arms around his neck and hugged him tightly. "Thank you," I
whispered into his ear. I could feel Darien hug me back, and the two of us
stood there for a few moments, content to hold each other.
A flash of red above me caught my eye and I looked up over Darien's
shoulder. My eyes widened as I realized that Beryl was standing on a
balcony above us, and she was glaring down at me. A chill ran down my spine
and I shivered involuntarily.
"What is it?" Darien asked, feeling me stiffen in his arms. He pulled away
gave me a worried look. "Serena?"
I felt like a deer caught in headlights as Beryl's hateful stare bored into
me. Distantly, I could hear Darien calling my name. Her dark eyes burned
with a frightening intensity. I felt paralyzed. Then, with a start, I
discovered that I was looking into Darien's sapphire eyes, which had
clouded over with concern.
"Serena, what's the matter?" he asked anxiously.
I blinked in confusion and looked back to the balcony above us. Beryl had
disappeared. "There was..." I trailed off, not wanting to sound paranoid.
I shook my head and smiled dismissively. "I thought I saw something."
Darien didn't look convinced and he turned to see what I was looking at.
"Up on the balcony?"
"It's nothing," I told him. "Let's go back inside."
Darien looked doubtful, but he put his arm around my waist to guide me
back to the ballroom. I almost ran to the doors. The image of Beryl
glaring down at me with such hatred was going to be difficult to shake.
I'm done with exams. I might write a bit more when I take breaks
from studying but I'm not making any promises. Thanks for
understanding, and for your wonderful reviews! You're all so
kind! Also, the country that Prince Elios is from, Aftapati,
is Greek for Illusion, where Elios from the series is from.
This posting is a revision. Thanks to Amanda for her help with
the French grammar!
Ash
Switched at Birth - Chapter 9
It was a memorable birthday. After the ballet, Darien and I had
taken a walk along the Champs-Elysees. Then, we had a late lunch
at a quaint little café. We were currently in the royal jet,
heading back to Paradeisos.
"I wish we could have stayed a little longer in Paris," I said
wistfully.
"We will go to Paris again," Darien assured me.
"Soon?" I asked hopefully.
Darien laughed and kissed my hand. "Soon enough," he promised.
"But as for today, we must get you back to the palace in time for
your birthday party."
I smiled. "I think that any preconceived notions I have about the
term 'birthday party' are going to be blown out of the water after
tonight."
Darien laughed again. "They may very well be," he agreed. "But how
do you know that it's not just a simple dinner with our two families?"
I raised a skeptical eyebrow. "Because I have learned that, after
living in Paradeisos for two and a half months, the word 'simple' is
not in the royal vocabulary," I replied. I was referring, of course,
to the elaborate balls, the fabulous dresses, and even the meals I
ate everyday.
Darien grinned. "You are very perceptive, my love."
It was all I could do to keep from shivering when Darien called me
'my love'. It suddenly hit me that I was engaged to the man of my
dreams. And he was a prince. Could my life be more of a fairytale?
Darien interrupted my thoughts with a thorough kiss. "You had that
look on your face again," he informed me.
I was about to reply when the captain informed us that we would be
descending shortly. When we had landed, there were two limousines
waiting for us; one for me and one for Darien, I was told.
"Why aren't you coming with me?" I asked.
Darien caressed my cheek reassuringly. "I need to get ready for your
party before I join you," he replied. "We'll see each other in a few
hours. Don't worry." He escorted me to my limo and kissed my cheek
before going to his own car.
When the chauffeur closed the door, I leaned back in my seat and sighed
happily. Life certainly didn't get any better than this.
***************************************************************************************************
As soon as I arrived back at the palace, I was accosted by Mlle Luna,
who practically dragged me up to my chamber.
"What is the matter?" I gasped, trying no to stumble as she pulled on
my arm.
"We have only two hours to get you ready for your birthday," Mlle Luna
replied.
As gracefully as I could, I wrested my arm back from Mlle Luna's grasp.
"Only two hours?" I repeated dryly. "Then I suppose we'll have to rush."
Mlle Luna seemed to miss my sarcastic tone and flashed me a grateful
smile. "I'm so glad we're on the same wavelength," she told me. She
practically pushed me into my chamber and followed in behind me. "Lita!
La salle de bains est-elle prete?" (Is the bathroom ready?)
Lita emerged from my bathroom and curtseyed. "Oui, Mademoiselle," she
replied.
Mlle Luna bustled me into my bathroom and dragged Lita along on the way.
"You must hurry, Your Majesty," she insisted.
I raised a skeptical eyebrow at the scene before me. While my bathroom
was rather large, I had absolutely no intention of cleaning myself in
the presence of Lita, Mlle Luna, the royal hairdresser, the royal
manicurist, and the royal make-up artist. I shook my head. "All right,
if today is not your birthday, then you will have to leave," I announced.
"Your Majesty?" Mlle Luna asked, confused.
It was all I could to not to roll my eyes. "Everyone, out," I commanded.
"I have no desire to take a shower in the presence of five other people."
"But Your Majesty..." Mlle Luna protested.
"Everyone, out!" I repeated loudly.
Everyone nodded and curtseyed meekly, and beat a hasty retreat. I sighed
with relief and hurried to lock the door behind them. Quickly, I stripped
out of my clothes and took a nice hot shower, using my favorite body wash
and shampoo. When I was finished, I wrapped my hair in a towel and put my
robe on. I exited my bathroom to find Mlle Luna going through my closet,
trying to find a dress for tonight. Poor Lita was being buried under my
clothes.
I shook my head and chuckled softly as I headed to the oaken wardrobe
where I kept my formal wear. Opening the large double doors, I pulled
out a light pink dress from the collection of ball gowns that Mlle
Meiou and I had designed together. It was sleeveless, with a square
collar, a back that laced up, and a floor-length full skirt that
trailed slightly in the back.
"Mlle Luna, I will be wearing this tonight," I said, holding the gown
up for her to see. "Lita, if you could collect my jewelry from the
bathroom, my pink satin pumps, and my white opera gloves."
Lita set my other clothing on my bed and curtseyed. "Of course, Your
Majesty."
Mlle Luna nodded and snapped her fingers loudly. "Hair, make-up and
nails," she practically shouted.
I gritted my teeth and tried to smile graciously. "Mlle Luna, please,"
I said patiently. "I do believe that Lita's help will be sufficient
tonight. She has helped me get ready for a great many events."
Mlle Luna looked doubtful. "Are you sure?" she asked.
I nodded. "I'm sure you're needed elsewhere," I told her, not trying to
sound condescending.
Mlle Luna hesitated. "Well, there is still the matter with the food
tonight..." she said, almost to herself.
I put a friendly arm around her shoulders and guided her to the door.
"Then you must take care of that first," I declared. "The comfort of
tonight's guests should be our top priority."
Mlle Luna nodded. "Of course, Your Majesty," she said. With a quick
curtsey, she was gone.
"Finally," I muttered to myself. I turned to address the hairdresser,
make-up artist and manicurist. "My hair needs to be dried and styled.
A simple chignon will be sufficient. Only minimal make-up to match my
dress is necessary. And my nails are fine for tonight."
"But Your Highness," the manicurist protested.
I held up my exquisitely manicured hands. "Please," I told her. "My
nails have not been damaged since yesterday, as you can see."
She scrutinized my nails, and then nodded, mollified. "Very well,
Your Highness," she relented.
An hour later, I was ready. My hair was swept up away from my face
and neck, drawing attention to the necklace and earrings that Darien
had given me. I wore a tiny bit of eye shadow, blush, and some
pearly-pink lipstick. Darien's bracelet was linked around my gloved
wrist, and my new engagement ring was securely on my left ring finger.
I thanked my assistants graciously, and excused them all, except for
Lita, who stayed behind to help me with the skirt of my gown as soon
as M. Artemis came to escort me to see my parents and Darien's family.
King Stephen and Queen Gaia were making small talk with my parents
when I walked in with M. Artemis. Darien looked like he was pacing
back and forth on the plush carpet, and he was checking his watch
every few seconds. M. Artemis cleared his throat somewhat theatrically
in order to get everyone's attention. Five heads turned to look at me.
My eyes widened slightly when I realized that my parents and Darien's
parents were all smiling broadly.
"Princess Serenity," he announced, presenting me to them.
I gathered the skirt of my gown in my hands and performed a low curtsey.
"Your Majesties," I said demurely.
Queen Gaia decided to dispense with protocol and swept me up into a tight
hug, while King Stephen grabbed my right hand and pumped it
enthusiastically, surprising the hell out of me. I think I actually gave
M. Artemis a panicked look.
"Your Majesties...!" I stammered, startled.
"Oh, we're absolutely overjoyed that you've agreed to marry our son,"
Queen Gaia gushed.
"Ecstatic," King Stephen added. "You should see our Darien these days,
walking around in a love-struck daze..."
I threw an amused look at Darien, who had the grace to blush.
"And you're such a stunning young woman," Queen Gaia continued. "We can't
wait for our grandchildren. They're going to be absolutely beautiful!"
Now it was my turn to blush. "Of course that won't be for several years,
you understand," I told them, my cheeks crimson. Out of the corner of
my eye, I could see Darien covering his face with his hand and groaning
softly. I heard a tiny whimper and saw that Mother was trying to choke
back happy tears. Apparently, the mere mention of the word
'grandchildren' was enough to set her off. Father was patting Mother's
hand consolingly, but I could see that his eyes were wet as well.
What the hell was going on? I wondered, bewildered. It was as if I had
stepped into the Twilight Zone. Well, more so than usual, anyway. As
gracefully as I could, I extricated myself from Queen Gaia's grasp,
only to be engulfed in a hug from Father.
"Father..." I couldn't help squirming a little. Oh come on; don't tell
me you've actually enjoyed it when all of your aunts and uncles decide
to crack your ribs because they're SO happy to see you. I rest my case.
But I'm getting off-topic again. Sorry about that. "The guests are
waiting," I protested lightly, throwing M. Artemis, the stickler for
protocol, a pleading look. My jaw nearly hit the floor when all he did
was shrug helplessly.
Thankfully, Darien stepped in to rescue me. "Your Majesty, I believe
it is time for dinner," he said. "It wouldn't do to keep everyone
waiting."
At that, Father finally released his hold on me. I sighed with relief
and smoothed out the front of my gown. I gave Darien a grateful look
as he held out his hand to escort me to the grand ballroom. We had to
wait a few minutes while our parents regained their composure, but
eventually, we made our entrance.
I had to remind myself to keep my mouth closed as I looked at the
beautifully decorated room. Darien had apparently given the palace
staff a few hints on the color scheme. Swaths of pastel tulle were
draped around the ceiling and walls. The tables were set with pastel
tablecloths and napkins, and a huge arrangement of pastel roses
served as the centerpiece. At each place setting, there was a single
rose in a crystal bud vase. Along with the soft pinks, peaches,
blues, lavenders, yellows and greens in the room, there were accents
of white and gold, Paradeisos' royal colors, everywhere in the room.
"This way, Your Majesties," M. Artemis informed us.
Darien and I took our place at the end of a red carpet to await the
receiving line. Poor Darien had to stand with me while our parents
were allowed to sit in plush velvet chairs that had been set up
behind us. I smiled graciously and waited for the gift presentations
to begin.
After about two hours, I was starting to fidget from standing in the
receiving line for so long. Hundreds of guests bowed or curtseyed
before me and presented me with a gift from their country. I had
already acquired fourteen horses, twenty ceremonial weapons, six
dozen Faberge eggs, about a hundred other knick-knacks, and enough
clothes and jewelry to last me until my next birthday. My face was
tired from smiling so much, and I was starving.
A small cough brought my attention back to the present. I blinked
once and looked forward. I saw the top of a white-blond head. I
looked down slightly and saw a young boy standing there. He couldn't
have been more than seven years old, dressed in what looked like a
miniature military dress uniform. Behind him was a couple who was
obviously the boy's parents.
"Prince Elios of Aftapati," M. Artemis announced.
"Happy birthday, Your Majesty," Prince Elios whispered.
I couldn't fight the smile that spread across my face. I decided to
break protocol and knelt down so that I was eye-level with him.
"Thank you very much, Prince Elios."
He turned and nodded slightly to an aide, who presented me with a
large crystal sculpture. It was breathtaking. Each line was
flawlessly carved to represent a dozen roses in different stages
of growth, from bud to full bloom, in a crystal vase edged with
gold.
I could feel my eyes fill with tears at the sight of the beautiful
gift, and I had to cover my mouth to stifle my gasp of wonder. I
felt Darien touch my shoulder and then he asked if I was all right.
With my free hand, I covered his hand and I nodded.
I think my reaction scared Prince Elios. "Don't you like it?" he
asked worriedly. "I'm sorry I made you cry."
I shook my head and wiped away the tears that spilled down my
cheeks. "I think it's beautiful, Prince Elios. Thank you."
That made Prince Elios beam. "You're welcome." He bowed.
I looked up hopefully at his parents, who smiled at me and nodded.
Smiling back at them, I leaned forward to give Prince Elios a chaste
kiss on the cheek. When I pulled back, I saw that the young prince
was blushing, but smiling happily at me. I smiled back at him. My
smile became wider when I realized that Elios was the last to present
his gift. "Would you like to join our table during dinner?" I asked.
Elios turned to his parents with a hopeful look in his eyes. His
father nodded his approval. Elios turned back to me with a happy
smile on his angelic little face. I held my hand out and he placed
his smaller gloved hand in mine. I looped my other hand through
Darien's arm and the three of us headed to our table for dinner.
I could hear the cameras going crazy with their clicking as we
walked away.
Elios was very well behaved for a child of his age. I suppose that I
shouldn't have been surprised, considering he was brought up at court.
He ate very delicately and neatly, and he only spoke when he was
spoken to. Don't misunderstand, I don't advocate the adage that
children should be seen and not heard, but I've been to formal
dinners before with children and the things they did made you want to
cringe. When I was a few years younger, I nearly kissed my parents'
feet when they told me that I was allowed to sit at the 'grown-up'
table.
Dinner was absolutely delicious. We started out with shrimp cocktail,
followed by small bowls of consommé. Then, we were served goblets of
sherbet to clear our palates. As we ate, an orchestra played soft
music in the background. Then, the waiters began distributing the
main course, which consisted of lobster salad, saffron risotto, and
whipped potatoes with truffles and cream.
When it was time for dessert, four waiters rolled out a large birthday
cake on a cart. I had to bite back a 'whoa'. It was white and square,
with pastel icing flowers everywhere. Written on the cake were the
words 'Happy 16th Birthday, Princess Serenity!"
"It's lovely," I said, smiling widely. Someone handed me a knife and I
made the first ceremonial cut amid camera flashes and applause. I
handed the knife back and then sat down to wait while the cake was
distributed. Moments later, a slice of cake was placed in front of me.
Soon, everyone had a piece, and they were waiting for me to start. I
picked up my fork and cut into my dessert. The white icing covered
five layers of chocolate sponge cake that were light and airy, and
practically melted in my mouth. I gave Darien a tiny smile, which
he returned, and continued eating.
When everyone had finished eating and the dishes had been cleared away,
the orchestra increased in volume, inviting people to dance. I started
to turn to Darien with a hopeful look in my eyes, when he subtly motioned
for me to look on my other side. I turned my head slightly and saw Elios
watching the dancers longingly.
"Prince Elios, would you like to dance?" I asked politely, knowing that it
was improper for the woman to ask. But I also knew that Elios would be too
shy to ask me himself.
Elios smiled up at me and nodded happily. We stood up and headed to the
dance floor, hand in hand. The orchestra and the dancers stopped to watch
us as we stepped onto the wood-paneled floor. I placed my right hand in
Elios' and my left hand on his shoulder, while he placed his other hand at
my waist. I was a bit taller than him (okay, a lot) but once the music
started again, we were able to dance pretty easily to the moderately paced
music.
When the song was over, Elios and I were greeted to the sound of thunderous a
pplause, while the orchestra started another song. I curtseyed to him and he
bowed back to me. He took my hand and was about to lead me back to our table,
when Darien approached us. The music stopped again, and I almost rolled my
eyes at the pauses that the orchestra was making. I know that it was a sign
of respect, but I'm sure that they weren't being paid to gawk at us between
dances.
"May I?" he asked, while bowing to Elios.
Elios bowed back to him. "Of course, Your Majesty," he replied, placing my
hand inside Darien's outstretched one.
I curtseyed again to Elios and then followed Darien to the dance floor. He
placed his other hand on my waist and once the music started again, we
started to waltz. He kept a respectable distance from me, even during the
numerous turns and promenades we performed. Even though I wanted to gaze
into Darien's eyes, etiquette demanded that I look at his shoulder, which I
had always found to be a ridiculous rule. I mean, how were you supposed to
know if your partner was enjoying the dance if you were staring at their
jacket the entire time? So as much as I enjoyed dancing with my fiancé, I
was looking forward for the song to end at the same time. Unfortunately for
me, the orchestra decided to play the really, REALLY long version of the
Blue Danube Waltz. I'm talking over ten minutes.
"I need some air after this," I murmured under my breath, trying not to
move my lips too much. I lifted my eyes briefly to Darien's face and I saw
him nod almost imperceptibly. I felt his hand squeezed mine for a moment
and then, as if nothing had happened, we continued to dance.
Finally, the song was over, and I curtseyed to Darien and then the guests
that were watching us, while he did the same, except that he bowed. We
headed towards the doors that lead to the terrace, and a pair of servants
rushed to open them for us. As soon as we stepped outside, I heard a loud
click as the doors were closed and a loud swishing sound. Darien and I
turned around to see that the drapes to the windows of the terrace had
been pulled shut.
Darien smiled down at me and lifted my hand to his lips. "Alone at last,"
he whispered after brushing his lips across the back of my hand. Then,
he leaned down to kiss me gently. When he pulled away, he had a content
expression on his face. "I've wanted to do that all night," he told me.
I reached up and played with the dark hair at the nape of his neck. "So
have I," I replied, smiling back at him. "Thank you for rescuing me just
now."
"It was my pleasure," Darien told me. "It was the least I could do,
considering how little help I was when you were announced to my parents."
I couldn't help giggling a little at the memory. "That was
certainly...odd, wouldn't you say?"
"Odd," Darien echoed teasingly. "That's one way of putting it."
"And how would you put it?" I inquired, raising an interested eyebrow.
"Utterly bizarre," he replied, grinning. "I thought I was hallucinating."
I laughed outright at that. I was about to say something when Darien's
lips descended upon mine and kissed me passionately.
When he pulled away, we were both a little breathless. "You have a
beautiful laugh," he told me.
I blushed and looked down a little. "Thank you," I replied.
Darien's hand came under my chin and tilted my head up. "Have I made you
uncomfortable?" he asked concernedly.
I smiled reassuringly and shook my head. "No, it's just that it's been a
while since I've really laughed," I explained.
"While you were in the United States?" Darien guessed.
I nodded. "Yes."
Darien wrapped his arms around me and held me close. "I'm so sorry that
you haven't been as happy here as you were in America."
I shook my head and looked up at him. "You have made me incredibly happy,"
I assured him. "You are one of a few people who have made me feel lucky to
be here."
Darien smiled when he heard that. "I'm glad to hear that."
"When we get married...can I invite my friends from America?" I asked him
hesitantly.
Darien nodded. "Of course," he told me. "You can invite whomever you wish."
I wrapped my arms around his neck and hugged him tightly. "Thank you," I
whispered into his ear. I could feel Darien hug me back, and the two of us
stood there for a few moments, content to hold each other.
A flash of red above me caught my eye and I looked up over Darien's
shoulder. My eyes widened as I realized that Beryl was standing on a
balcony above us, and she was glaring down at me. A chill ran down my spine
and I shivered involuntarily.
"What is it?" Darien asked, feeling me stiffen in his arms. He pulled away
gave me a worried look. "Serena?"
I felt like a deer caught in headlights as Beryl's hateful stare bored into
me. Distantly, I could hear Darien calling my name. Her dark eyes burned
with a frightening intensity. I felt paralyzed. Then, with a start, I
discovered that I was looking into Darien's sapphire eyes, which had
clouded over with concern.
"Serena, what's the matter?" he asked anxiously.
I blinked in confusion and looked back to the balcony above us. Beryl had
disappeared. "There was..." I trailed off, not wanting to sound paranoid.
I shook my head and smiled dismissively. "I thought I saw something."
Darien didn't look convinced and he turned to see what I was looking at.
"Up on the balcony?"
"It's nothing," I told him. "Let's go back inside."
Darien looked doubtful, but he put his arm around my waist to guide me
back to the ballroom. I almost ran to the doors. The image of Beryl
glaring down at me with such hatred was going to be difficult to shake.