[LENA]
A temporary, decorated platform was constructed in front of the fountain in the center of the courtyard for the betrothal ceremony. Tables laden with local and imported hors d'oeuvres, non-alcohol beverages, and sweet desserts were arranged artistically on the lawn to be served to the guests after the ceremony.
Men and women belonging to the nobility were milling by the platform, talking and gossiping amongst themselves while occasionally calling out to their children to stop running around the courtyard as they waited for the ceremony to begin.
I caught sight of the scene outside as I walked past the tall windows on my way to the entrance hall. I stopped, leaning my back against a pillar as I closed my eyes and breathed deeply, willing my hands and knees to stop trembling, trying to regain control of the turbulent emotions battling their way to come out from inside me.
