Chapter 28

"Of course," Cassie told her at the same time Grace announced, "That would be fun!"

The three of them headed up the stairs together and went into Cassie's room because she had a bathroom. Cassie suggested to Francesca that they do Grace's hair and make up first because she was sure Grace woulnd't be able to stand going second or third.

Grace blinked at her mother and then admitted that she was right. "But I could probably live with going second. The bride should really be first."

"It's okay sweetie I was just going to leave my hair as it is because AJ likes it this way. So all I need to do is shower, make up and dress. Let's get you done first so you can go to your room and get dressed while I shower."

"I can go with you so you don't mess up your hair by trying to get your dress over your head alone," Francesca offered.

"That would be great!" Grace agreed.

Cassie worked on curling Grace's hair because she knew the way her daughter liked it. Francesca volenteered to do the younger girl's make up. Cassie requested that she not go too heavy.

Francesca agreed, saying that Grace had such delicate and beautiful skin that it would be a crime to cover it with a lot of cosmetics. All she would really need was a bit of blush, some lip gloss, and just a dusting of light blue eye shadow to compliment her dress.

In just under forty five minutes Grace was ready to go and get dressed. She and Francesca left so Cassie could take her shower. Francesca promised to be back shortly so she could help Cassie with her make up and getting her dress on.

Cassie was just coming out of the shower when Francesca knocked on her door. "Come in," she invited. Once she had entered Cassie said, "I want to thank you for all the help you have been today. I know Grace was very pleased with how pretty you made her look."

"She is such a beautiful girl it was easy."

"I have to tell you that I was nervous about meeting you when AJ told me you were able to come to the wedding, but I was glad to discover that you are as good and kind as your father. I know that we are too close in age to be like mother and daughter but I do hope that we can be good friends."

"I know before we even met that I would like you Cassie. I could hear the love my Papa has for you in his voice when he called to say he was to be married. If you can make him feel like that then you will always be someone important in both his and my life."

"Thank you Francesca. I do lone your father and even though we have only known each other a short time he is as dear to me as my children and George are."

"I am glad that he found you Cassie and I also hope that we become good friends. It is also nice to have a brother and little sister. Grace is very special. But for now we have a wedding to get ready for. Would you like me to do your make up?"

"Yes please, but like you did for Grace, minimal is the look that I like best."

Francesca smiled and told her, "I understand. I promise that your inner loveliness will shine through Cassie."

She couldn't help herself Cassie reached out and hugged the woman that in just over an hour would be her step daughter. Her make up done Francesca helped her into her dress and stepped back to look at Cassie. "You are so beautiful, Papa is very lucky."

"Thank you Francesca. Please make sure that you have enough time to get ready yourself."

"All I need to do is go to my room and get dressed. It will only take a few minutes."

"You should go now, I'm fine and we will be starting soon. I heard Martha arrive a few minutes ago."

"Alright, I'll see you again soon," Francesca told her.

To Be Continued…