Arissa arrived home late at night, her heart heavy from wandering through the shops, admiring dresses she longed to wear to the wedding. She sat on the steps of her house, the cool night air contrasting sharply with the warmth of her dreams. The rift between her and her father loomed larger, casting a shadow over her thoughts. Tilting her head back, she gazed at the stars, lost in their brilliance when a gentle tap on her shoulder startled her.
"Did I scare you?" Rosie asked softly, her mother's presence a soothing balm.
Arissa stood and wrapped her arms around her mother, tears streaming down her cheeks. Exhausted, she longed for the comfort of her bed, wishing she could sleep away her worries. Rosie embraced her tightly, whispering reassurances: "It's okay not to be okay."
The Next Day
As the sun rose, Arissa busied herself with chores around the house, her heart heavy with the knowledge that her father and Evie were dressing for the royal wedding, a glittering event filled with potential suitors. Once her chores were complete, she retreated to her room, fatigue settling in, and fell into a deep nap.
A few hours later, she awoke to the sound of laughter and excitement echoing from downstairs. She hurried out, locking the doors behind her as her father and Evie departed in the carriage. Remembering her mother's illness, she made her way to Rosie's room. There, on the bed, lay a stunning royal blue dress adorned with jewels, its fabric shimmering like the night sky. Her mother sat at the vanity, brushing her hair.
"Yes! I was just about to call for you!" Rosie exclaimed, turning her chair to face Arissa.
Rosie quickly pulled Arissa into the room and closed the door. "Mom! What's happening?" Arissa panicked.
"Calm down and try this dress!" Rosie urged, her eyes sparkling with excitement.
With gentle hands, Rosie helped Arissa into the exquisite gown, fixing her hair and applying makeup with care. The process felt endless, and Arissa couldn't help but voice her complaints.
"Shush! I'm almost done," Rosie teased, her smile infectious.
After what felt like an eternity, they stood before the mirror, and Arissa was stunned by her own reflection. She looked radiant—her pale skin glowed, her jet-black hair shimmered with ocean-blue highlights, and her diamond-like eyes sparkled with youthful innocence. The heart-shaped birthmark beneath her eye added an endearing touch.
As Arissa admired herself, she noticed her mother's tears. "Awe, Mom, please don't cry!" she said gently, reaching to wipe Rosie's cheeks.
Rosie took a deep breath. "You look just like a dear friend I once knew. She had fiery red highlights and ruby eyes. This dress was a gift from her, and now it feels like I'm passing it on to you. You remind me of her."
They embraced, the bond between mother and daughter palpable.
"Arissa, please go to the wedding banquet. I've left your heels by the door," Rosie insisted, her voice firm yet tender.
"Huh?! I can't leave you here; you're sick!" Arissa protested.
"Do this for me, please. A carriage is waiting for you outside. You must go!" Rosie urged, her eyes glistening with love.
"Okay, I will… thank you, Mother," Arissa said, her voice wavering.
"Just don't ruin your makeup!" Rosie chuckled, wiping away her own tears.
After another heartfelt hug, they made their way downstairs. Arissa slipped on her glass-heeled shoes and stepped outside, the carriage waiting as a gateway to her dreams.
"Bye! Love you!" they called out, their voices mingling in the cool evening air as the carriage pulled away.
Arissa held her breath, the thrill of the unknown filling her with nervous energy. She picked up a small mirror beside her and admired her reflection, a smile breaking across her face. Leaning her head against the window, she let sleep tug at her eyelids.
An Hour and a Half Later
"Ma'am! You've arrived!" the driver announced, jolting her awake.
Stepping out of the carriage, Arissa was awestruck. The castle loomed before her, more magnificent than she had ever imagined.
"A time to make a name for myself. Wish me luck," she whispered to herself, steeling her resolve. With a deep breath, she walked toward the grand gate, ready to fade into the glittering world of the castle.