Chris helped me into the exquisite gown, carefully lacing the corset and adjusting the delicate sleeves. Fred had returned from Earth with a stunning medieval-inspired dress, reminiscent of the elegant attire worn by the ladies of Bridgeton.
He must have thought long about the dress after the series, which was why he purchased one. “You are a queen, Bunny.” That was what he said when I asked why he bought the dress. You would have thought he had a perfect reason aside from that. I will give it to him, though. His taste is top-notch.
Chris was even jealous when she saw the dress. I bet she even wanted to steal from me. Jokes on her, though. He got my size – don’t ask how he managed that because I don’t know.
As I gazed into the mirror, I felt like a queen from a bygone era. The dress was a masterpiece-rich, velvety blue silk with intricate gold embroidery and delicate lace trim. The fitted bodice showcased my curves, while the full skirt fell in soft folds to the floor.
My long, blonde hair cascaded down my back, with loose curls framing my face. Chris had woven a delicate gold circle into my locks, adorned with a glittering sapphire that matched the dress.
My eyes sparkled with excitement as I took in my reflection. I felt regal, elegant, and transported to a world of chivalry and romance.
“Fred has excellent taste,” Chris said, smiling.
I nodded, feeling like a medieval queen. “Though he might act as if he can’t get his thoughts together most times, I believe he’s the best.”
I turned around for her, loving the way her eyes sparkled as she gave me an appraisal, almost as if she couldn’t believe I was the same Bella of an hour ago.
The dress was perfect for my first meeting with my people and I couldn’t wait to see my mates’ reactions when they saw me. They will be so stunned I might have to pick their jaws from the floor.
“You didn’t say so when he brought it,” she teased, dabbing a blush on my cheeks. “You look wonderful, dear.”
“Thanks.”
Together, we left the room, with Chris standing behind. Chrys – short form for Chrysolite – was fast asleep in her room. Blue had to put her to a spell-induced sleep so she wouldn’t disturb us.
As I descended the staircase, Blue’s eyes locked onto mine. His gaze swept over me, taking in the intricate details of the gown. Chris stood next to me, grumbling about how unfair life was. She moaned her spinsterhood while accusing me of being selfish because I have two men willing to fight the entire world for my sake.
“Bunny, you’re breathtaking,” he whispered, offering his arm, his gaze still locked on mine, like he couldn’t extricate his eyes from me. “You are the most beautiful woman ever, darling.”
I smiled, feeling like royalty.
“Fred’s taste is impeccable,” he added, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “I believed he was only bluffing when he said he had the perfect dress in mind. Who would have thought he would be right about something.”
“Which is?”
“A plan to make you the most beautiful queen of the century.”
Chuckling, I leaned on him, just as Fred appeared by his side, dressed just like Blue, like a medieval king. They wore fitted, velvet doublets in a deep, rich burgundy, adorned with intricate gold threading that complemented the embroidery on my gown. The doublets accentuated their broad shoulders and chiselled chests.
Their sleeves were long and flowing, with slight puffing at the shoulders, adding a touch of regality. They embellished the cuffs with delicate, sparkling gemstones that matched the sapphire in my circle.
Their breeches were tight-fitting, made of the finest black leather, and were tucked into knee-high boots with subtle gold buckles.
Around their necks, they wore matching golden collars adorned with small, gleaming rubies. They styled perfectly their hair, with subtle waves framing their chiselled faces.
“Are you ready?” Fred asked, his question causing me to blink.
I didn’t realize I was openly gawking at my mates, not like they weren’t doing the same though, but come on. I felt shy knowing they could tell I was checking them out.
“Yeah. I’m good.” Smiling, I extended my left hand towards him, so he would hold me since Blue was hogging my right hand to himself.
Together, they led me towards their throne room, which they had been meticulously working on for days now. They didn’t let me step in, afraid I might wear out the surprise before they sprung one on me.
Chris opened the door, and we stepped into the majestic throne room. The high ceiling vanished into darkness, with candelabras suspended like stars above. They adorned the walls with intricate tapestries depicting scenes of medieval battles and romantic chivalry.
The room was filled with our people, dressed in their finest attire, murmuring in hushed tones. The air was alive with anticipation.
At the far end of the room, three thrones sat atop a raised dais, decorated with my mates’ family crest. Ornate, velvet-draped pillars flanked the thrones, and a crimson carpet led up to the dais.
As we entered, the room fell silent. Curious eyes turned to us. Their stares were almost uncomfortable. Blue and Fred stood tall, their kingly garments commanding attention. I walked between them, feeling like a queen.
Chris took her place beside the dais, a smile on her face, winking when I walked towards the thrones with my mates.
Blue stepped forward, his voice booming through the room. “Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed companions, we welcome you to our throne room tonight.”
Fred continued, “We have a special introduction to make. Someone dear to our hearts, whom we would like you to meet.”
Blue’s eyes locked onto mine, and he smiled. “Please join us in welcoming our beloved Queen Bella Cold.”
The room entire room became silent at the introduction. You could even hear them breathing as all eyes focused on me.
Fred took my hand, and Blue gestured to the central throne. “Our queen, whom we cherish and honour.”
I sat down, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. My mates flanked me, their presence reassuring.
As I looked out at the sea of unfamiliar faces, I knew this night marked the beginning of a new chapter.