For the first time, I wanted to look beautiful on my birthday. For Philippe, of course. Cece and I dressed in the finest fineries. I even lent her one of my most lavish ball gowns.
Minute pearls and sparkling stones were threaded through my hair that fell in loose curls on my back. I wore a cream and gold long-sleeved brocade dress with a sweetheart neckline and a bouffant skirt. Over my dress, a matching corset was cinched so tightly on my waist that I could barely breathe.
"Princess Lena, you look lovely!" Cece complimented.
"So do you, Cece," I replied. She looked amazing as always. I selected a small box from the pile of unopened gifts in the corner of my boudoir. Inside was a pair of diamond-studded teardrop earrings. I held them out for her. "For you. It'd look good with your dress." I knew she'd appreciate it more than I would. Besides, it would help to butter her up for the favor I would be asking her later.
"Oh my, thank you, Lena!" she said happily as she put them on.
