A familiar aroma fills the carriage as light music plays in the background.
"It's time. You will soon be the Queen of our grand empire. May all those who came before you bless you with the grace of just and mercy."
The maid bows to me after she stands to help me out of the carriage.
I don't respond as per tradition. The hour before a brides wedding she should refrain from talking. It allows blessings to fill her heart and love fill her voice, so when she finally says 'I do" it's filled with the love she feels for the groom.
I never got to hear this tale before my wedding though. I was unaware and ended up speaking to Snow, she had asked me a question and I responded. I can't remember the question, but I do remember the shocked faces.
Leo of course was happy that his daughter had received the love I held in my voice.
But I was mortified at the thought of not giving him all of my love.
"Shall we go now, My Lady?"
I give a sharp nod.
We walk towards the temple entrance in silence. I keep my eyes forward as we walk up the stairs and head to the doors. The temple is all white inside and out with beautiful gold decor. Chrysanthemums hang from the ceiling and chairs giving off a welcoming aroma as the music gets louder.
The maid stands by as I continue to walk towards the giant doors. Two guards open the door from the inside as I walk closer.
"May I present to the people; The future Queen! Her Ladyship, Regina Ingrid!"
A choir begins to sing as I walk into the room. I continue forward while staring into Leo's beautiful brownish eyes. His black hair is slicked back and he's wearing an all black tuxedo with a golden tie and handkerchief. He smiles widely at me and I see a small tear slide down his cheek. I smile brighter as my steps get the tiniest bit faster.
He noticed. He gives me a very boyish smirk and lets out a silent chuckle.
Before I fully make it up to him I see Snow make a dart for me. As she runs toward me I feel a chill run up my spine as I'm tempted to run in the opposite direction. I keep my feet planted and stop walking as she runs up to me.
"Hi. What's your name? I'm Snow White!"
I look up from the little girl and toward Leo giving him a confused and unsure look. He smiles reassuringly and gestures to a maid.
The maid picks her up and bows to me apologetically.
I continue up to Leo's side and hold his hand as he gives me his ever loving gaze.
The priest steps forward as Leo and I hold hands, basking in each other's love and appreciation.
"We are gathered to invite and welcome the love of these two people. Please rise and remain silent while they recite their own vows."
I smile and exhale as I remember what we'd said and vowed to each other in our past lives.