Under Chateau Lights | Complete

40 | May I Join You?

My social media post completely blows up while I'm asleep, to the point where I literally can't keep up with all the notifications and have to turn off my phone and leave it on my dresser. The bright light streams through the window and illuminates a freshly cleaned tea station right beside the television.

The housekeeping staff had clearly been in since I'd left, so the remnants of gifts long ago unwrapped or tea prepared for me by my best friend were all gone. Part of me wishes I still had those things, but part of me is glad they are gone. It's a bright morning and a fresh start.

"Julie!" Mom calls, pounding on my door. "We're going upstairs to start the preparations. Are you still joining us?"

I loop my ponytail holder around my hair and throw open the door, not bothering to give an answer as I follow her down the hallway to the elevator. Neither of us speaks as we ride up to the top floor and into the grand ballroom.

It looks different in the daylight. Less exciting and fancy. But I'm sure mother will have us whipped into shape and decorating in no time. A draft of warm air hits me from above as the furnace roars to life somewhere deep in the bowels of the hotel's basement.

I don't have time to think before Elodie and Celeste arrive and Mother throws us into organizing centerpieces and place settings. She does not trust unknown staff with this activity. Apparently it is of too much importance.

After most of the day spent chasing Celeste around and doing small tasks for a cold-shouldered Mother, we manage to get the place in good enough shape that Mom lets my sisters go. I am left to hang up sparkly streamers and organize the party favours. Probably as punishment for running off.

Just before seven, Mother calls me over. "Julie?"

"Yeah?" Having something to focus on that is not poppers and small confetti cannons is most welcome.

"I'm very impressed with the work you did here today." Her hand rests on my shoulder and urges me to stand up. "I'm still upset you ran off on us but I do understand there was a lot going on and it was difficult to handle. I'm sorry you didn't feel you could speak to me about it. Your father and I had a long chat about that."

That's very level-headed of her. "Thank you, Mom."

"It's like you said, you are an adult. You get to make your own choices. And your own mistakes. In the end I do appreciate you choosing to come back here to spend time with us."

"I know. And you were right. I should have listened. Have I mentioned I'm sorry?"

"Not rolling your eyes a single time all day is apology enough for me." She smiles and pulls me into a hug. "Now go. Get ready for the event. I know there might not be any suitors for you, but even without anyone to woo, it never hurts to dress up for an event, now does it?"

I just smile and nod, despite the fact that doing my hair often does hurt. Words jumble around in my mouth, trying to figure out what to say next. I am spared the trouble in trying to speak when Celeste appears in the doorway. "All set, Ma?"

My mother kisses the top of my head and moves to adjust the centerpiece on a nearby table. "Yes, Celeste, we're all done. Go, get ready."

"Perfect. See you later." Celeste glides across the room and encircles my wrist with her hand. "Come on, Julie. We have work to do."

"You always say that like I'm a lump who forgot to shower this morning."

"I do not!"

I trail behind her through the maze of hallways until she finally drags me into a room I don't recognize and sits me down in front of a table covered in brushes. For what? I don't know.