ARIAH
The ceremony was beautiful given what it was. Luna was as stunning as ever, and I would argue, it would have been a breathtaking event had Beetlerum not been there.
Like most traditional marriage ceremonies in Foxhead, there isn’t a disparity of color. Bright and gallant, starting with the lavender-colored carriage that transported Luna and the purple hued flowers that adorned it. All but lilacs, Luna made sure for my sake that there wouldn’t be one present. She had stepped out in Jaleese’s old dress that had to be let out slightly, but I made it work in the little time I had.
I added sheer flowing sleeves to help with any bitter cold the night would bring. She wore a fitted corset that looked tight but was held together by loose ribbons in the back. Luna made it clear she wanted to breathe and was not sacrificing comfort for vanity. I commented that if she did faint they would likely cancel the wedding, but she said that would only prolong the inevitable. I was also able to get handmade flower patches sewn on the bottom half, each a different color and all connected to the forest green thread that ran all over the dress to give the appearanceof flower stems. The bottom half rippled down like the sea with more lavender ruffles.
Luna borrowed her mother’s pearl drop earrings, matching a necklace that sat splendidly against her deep umber skin. Her hair was loose, coarse curls roamed free, as they always should.
In traditional Foxhead style, the ceremony began shortly after dusk when the sky was illuminated with an abundance of stars. Thousands of tiny lanterns were strung from ropes that ran all around the gardens of the Beetlerum Estate. The central fountain radiated with seafoam-green water and held swans and floating iridescent flowers. The Council, and predictably the Beetlerum family, spared no expense, all of it made more extravagant by our guest of honor.
Everyone buzzed and gawked and gossiped when Queen Cayleen made her entrance, one nearly as grand as Luna’s. She took her seat at the front to observe the couple she had never met before.
My family sat a row behind her. My parents remained silent and not once looked in her direction. They were furious with her and even more at me for not immediately declining her offer. When I told them what my “no” would bring it seemed to silence them both, but anger remained.
Occasionally, I caught the slight glances of the Queen’s eye, but she never stared long. Once the sacred words were exchanged the event took on more of a festive feel and food and drink started flowing in abundance.
I currently move underneath a vine-covered arch that’s crawling with roses. Behind the secrecy of the bushes and arch, I rearrange my drawers that cause itching near my thighs. Once I’m fully adjusted, I ensure no one has seen me; thankfully, it seems no one pays me any mind. From afar, I observe everyone seemingly enjoying themselves. Even my parents crack a smile as they dance and mingle.
Behind me I get a good view of the Beetlerum Estate. The home could easily house most of the people who reside in Foxhead judging from the bits I can see in the light. And to think this all could have been mine.
“Ariah.” The call of my name sends me spinning around.
An anxious Luna and her new husband come walking up. Well, it’s more like Luna drags Morren along. He clearly has no desire to speak to me and I’m in agreement. But this is not my day I remind myself, so I perk up and muster the best smile I can.
“Morren,” Luna begins. “I know you’ve met before, but I would like to properly introduce you to my best friend and sister, Ariah Tyddle.”
He and I enter a staring match and it’s a question of who will outstretch their hand first.
This time Morren isn’t covered in soot, but his clothes are still a few sizes too big. I now know his family has money and I suspect his ill-fitting apparel is a personal choice, which I can’t find fault for. At least this time his evergreen vest not only looks nice against his skin, but goes well with the thread I added to Luna’s dress. His black tailcoat compliments the overall aesthetics of tonight nicely.
Luna’s glances bounce between us, with everything I’ve put her through, I give in first and stretch out my hand for his.
“Pleasure to properly meet you.” He’s reluctant at first but eventually surrenders as I continue, “It was a beautiful ceremony.”
“Mmhmm.” Is all I get from him.
“Luna!” Mrs. Trivy calls for her.
“Excuse me while I go assist my mother.” Morren moves to go with her, but Luna stops him. “You two should speak. Get to know each other.”
Get to know each other? If I wanted that then I would have married him myself.
“You and your family have a lovely home.” I utter the first bit of small talk that comes to mind.
“We do,” he says coldly and straightens his tailcoat. “Bet you regret your decision now.”
“Excuse me?” I exclaim, not entirely surprised.
“Luna has hopes that you and I can make amends, but I’m not so liberal with forgiveness. I will tolerate you for her sake.”
Oh, how kind. However, shall I repay him.
“Ha!” I let out a pathetic laugh, one to let him know just how amused I am. “You don’t owe me any forgiveness because there is nothing to forgive. My decision wasn’t made with regard to you.” Only partially true. “It was what I wanted.” I take a step closer to him until we’re almost nose to nose. “And whether you tolerate me or not, I will always remain Luna’s friend. And I swear if I hear you are ever unkind to her or if you hurt her, I will kill you myself.”
He holds my glare, and I can see his nostrils flaring.
“Is there a problem?” A woman says from behind him. I recognize her from the ceremony and know it’s his mother.
