After telling her everything she knew about the dragon-shaped tattoo, Hope helped Ayala get dressed. The green gown with one shoulder, tight at the waist and then long with ruffles up to the knees, gave Ayala the appearance of a princess taken out straight from a fairy tale.
It seemed to Hope that the room had taken on more color and warmth, pushing the terrifying storm outside. The flames of the candles trembled as Ayala did a pirouette and the air swirled with her. Her honey blond hair with big curls looked great next to the jade green dress.
Hope's grin was the result of her inner contentment. She was relieved that her friend had recovered from her depression, and she was now looking forward to the ceremony. Hope believed she had completed her task.
"I am going to get dressed so I can be ready for the wedding," she said, arranging a curl of Ayala's hair. "It won't take long since you know that I never have patience when it comes to arranging myself."
