Total pages in book: 128
Estimated words: 125020 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 625(@200wpm)___ 500(@250wpm)___ 417(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 125020 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 625(@200wpm)___ 500(@250wpm)___ 417(@300wpm)
My face has a glow and glitters from my makeup. It goes perfectly with the pale-blue dress. The gown has a deep V and is sheer with stones that shimmer in the light, creating an illusion of being the only thing covering my intimate parts.
The mermaid style flows to the floor and pools at my feet and into a small train, making my height and curves look defined and alluring. The sequined shoes beneath are just as magnificent. Yet they probably won’t be seen, shame.
“You’re perfection. We tall women have to stick together. Our height makes us a display for gowns like these. You will turn every head in attendance tonight,” Zoe says as she comes to stand beside me.
I smile at her through the mirror as she runs her hand down my sleek ponytail. She looks fabulous in the pink satin Roman-style gown she has on. Her peach-colored mask sets off her brown skin.
“Here, this will complete the look,” she says, holding out a box to me.
I take the box as I start to feel giddy inside. When I open it, I find a pale-blue-and-silver mask covered in Swarovski crystals. It’s a half mask and will only cover half my face.
“Here. Allow me. It has combs and will attach to your hair.”
“Thank you,” I say as she takes the mask from my hand and puts it in place for me.
When I look back into the mirror, my eyes mist up. I look like a real princess. My brown eyes sparkle from behind the gorgeous mask. I look like a work of art.
“Wow, you’re a vision. Joshua won’t remember to breathe. Prinkípissa tou óntos.”
“Huh?”
She waves a hand. “Forgive me. I’m just happy for my young friend.”
Kelex
So far, so good. I haven’t run into my father and that suits me just fine. I glance at my watch again, as I have a million times already. It’s been two hours since I arrived and still no sign of Zoe or Shawna.
Although Shawna’s parents have arrived. Growing impatient, I look around for them to see if I can get answers. That’s when she comes into view.
I know it’s her right away. The height, the curves, there’s no mistaking her. However, I also notice exactly what I want for her. She has this air about her.
A confidence that exudes from her pores. It’s like an aura around her and this is only from my view from behind. My feet are moving before I can tell them to.
I approach as her parents are called away for a photo op. Stopping behind her, I place a hand on her waist and lean into her ear.
“You take my breath away,” I whisper.
She turns in my hold and looks into my eyes. I tighten my arm around her and tug her close. She searches my gaze beneath the mask, then smiles.
“I thought I was supposed to find you.”
“I couldn’t stay away. I got tired of waiting. Dance with me.”
She nods and I lead her to the dance floor. It’s not lost on me that the orchestra is playing a string version of Imagine Dragons’ “Demons.” This song couldn’t say what I’m thinking more.
Instead of telling her this, I dance us around the room and hold her gaze for her to see it all herself. My heart swells when I note her smile has met her eyes. I squeeze her hand and bring her fingers to my lips.
“Your mask. It’s the other half of mine,” she says.
“Of course, like two peas in a pod. We fit, and so should our masks.”
Her smile grows and she shakes her head as she smiles. I take the opportunity to dip her and kiss her neck. She smells delicious.
I would love nothing more than to devour her, but I know she’s not ready. Her cheeks glow as I bring her back up.
“It’s like I’m in a fairy tale. This ball is so beautiful. I feel like a princess, thank you.”
“What if I’m the dark prince, baby? Do you still want me?”
“Yes,” she answers almost instantly. “I think I’m ready to be more than friends. This feels right.”
I grin. “You know you just fucked up, right?”
“Huh?”
“I’m never letting you go. You’re mine now.”
She laughs a gorgeous laugh and shrugs. “I’m okay with that.”
“Good, because I don’t think I could breathe if you weren’t.”
She smiles and places her head against my shoulder. I kiss the top of her head and smile with contentment. For now, my demons are at rest.
Chapter 44
Help Me Understand
Kelex
Present…
“I remember that night. I didn’t think you two met. Shawna, you were so happy and you wouldn’t tell me why. Then you left before we had time to talk.
“Kelex, I never figured out if you were even there. Not until you told me you were the next day. You both left before dinner was served,” Skittles says, breaking into my thoughts as I share them.