Big sister at work

The next morning, the long-awaited bridal shower and bachelor day arrives. This day can either be chaotic or fun, never anything in between. Right now, my priority is Flora. I hadn't seen her the whole day yesterday, likely because she was having that preparatory chat they give girls before marriage. I remember sitting through those sessions with Miss Motan, which could take hours or even days. Miss Mary has been giving Flora lessons since her dowry was paid a few weeks back also. So am guessing a schedule is busy.

I head straight to the palace gardens where we are having the dinner. As I walk through the corridor, I come across Prince Malo. I consider turning back, but he has already seen me.

"Good morning," I say, trying not to make eye contact.

"Good morning," he replies, "You look stunning."

"Thank you," I say, and an awkward silence settles between us.

"Two more days until we become in-laws," he says.

"Indeed," I respond. "Your brother is an excellent choice for my sister Flora."

"They do make a nice couple," he agrees. Another awkward silence ensues.

I decide to break the tension. "Are you looking forward to the festivities today?"

Malo smiles faintly. "Yes, although these events can be overwhelming. It's a lot to take in."

"I understand. But it's also a time to celebrate and relax from royal duties" I say, trying to keep the conversation light.

"True," he nods. "By the way, have you seen His majesty Emperor Sinbad? He mentioned he had something important to discuss with me this morning, but I haven't been able to find him."

"No, I haven't seen him yet today," I reply. "But he's usually around the court yard at this hour. Maybe you'll run into him there."

"Thanks, I'll check there," Malo says. He hesitates for a moment, then adds, "It's good to talk with you, Princess Daniella. We should try to move past this awkwardness."

I nod, appreciating his effort. "Agreed. We're family now, or at least we will be soon. It's important that we get along, with no funny business." I state emphasising the last statement .

With a nod, Malo walks away, heading towards the gardens. I take a deep breath and continue on my path. As I near the garden, I spot Flora standing near a blooming rose bush, looking serene and beautiful in her simple morning gown.

"Flora," I call out, and she turns to me with a radiant smile.

"Daniella!" she exclaims, rushing over to embrace me. "I missed you so much yesterday."

"I missed you too," I say, holding her close. "How were your lessons with Miss Mary?"

Flora sighs. "Intense, but I think I'm ready. It's a lot to take in, but I'm excited."

"I'm sure you are," I say, smiling. "And today is all about celebrating you and your journey. Let's make the most of it."

As we walk together towards the center of the garden, I spot the other guests arriving. The tables are set with beautiful floral arrangements, and the air is filled with laughter and the scent of fresh flowers. The bridal shower and bachelor day promise to be a memorable celebration, and I intend to enjoy every moment of it with my sister.

I join the garden with the rest of the princesses and noble ladies, ready to party and drink the whole day. Despite the cheerful atmosphere, I can't help but feel something is off with Flora. I hope Farah and Flavia didn't get to her in any way, but I doubt they wouldn't do that to her.

I walk up to her and smile. "Hello, bride-to-be," I say with a grin.

"Hello," she replies, then looks out at the lake. This is unlike her at all.

"Are you getting nervous?" I ask. But she stays silent.

"I like Prince Maxim," she says in a low tone, "but I can't shake off the feeling that marrying him is wrong. Does he like me at all or its another political strategy?"

"He does," I say, squeezing her hand reassuringly.

She stays silent as if lost in thought. "What's really the matter?" I ask, trying to lighten the mood. "Come on, spill the royal tea."

She looks at me with a slight smile. "Well, it's not the tea. It's more like a whole royal banquet of doubts."

"Ah, the pre-wedding jitters special," I say, nodding sagely. "Served with a side of cold feet and garnished with a dash of 'what ifs'. Classic."

Flora chuckles, shaking her head. "You always know how to make me laugh."

"It's a talent," I say, pretending to polish my nails on my dress. "Seriously though, Maxim does care for you. Maybe he's just terrible at showing it. Remember that time he tried to write you a poem and it sounded like a recipe for disaster? Literally, he mixed up his love metaphors with cooking terms."

Flora laughs, her eyes lighting up. "Yes, something about my eyes being like simmering stew pots."

"And your smile like a freshly baked loaf of bread," I add, giggling. "I think he was just hungry."

Flora sighs, her smile fading slightly. "But what if...what if he's just marrying me because he has to?"

"Flora, if that were the case, he wouldn't look at you the way he does," I say, giving her hand another squeeze. "He'd look more like a man contemplating an overcooked steak."

She giggles again. "Alright, alright. You've convinced me. But what if the whole wedding goes horribly wrong? Like, what if I trip walking down the aisle?"

"Then you'll make a memorable entrance," I say, laughing. "And we'll all laugh and you'll get up and Prince Maxim will rush to your side and it'll be a great story for your grandchildren."

"And what if the cake falls over?" she asks, her eyes wide.

"Then we'll have a cake fight and declare it the most epic wedding ever," I say, grinning. "Come on, Flora. Life is messy and unpredictable. That's what makes it fun."

She takes a deep breath and nods. "You're right. I'm just overthinking everything."

"Of course you are," I say, putting my arm around her. "You're a bride. It's practically your job to overthink everything. But remember, we're all here for you. And we'll make sure it's the best day of your life, no matter what."

Flora smiles at me, a genuine smile this time. "Thanks. I needed that."

"Anytime," I say. "Now, how about we stop worrying and start enjoying this party? There's a lake, drinks, and an entire day ahead of us."

"Sounds like a plan," she says, her spirits visibly lifted, she gets up and goes over to the cocktail table.