The Mermaid's Unexpected Mate

Chapter 38

Marina's POV:

 I know Harmony was disappointed we couldn't find a dress for her. I do have an idea but I'm going to need Leah and Louise's help. There was this dress Harmony tried on. She liked it, but it wasn't exactly her style. I went back to the dress shop and bought it. When I returned with it, I went into my room with Louise and Leah, Leah carrying her sewing machine. Louise carried a bag full of lace and pearls. We smiled at each other. 

 "Ready girls?" I asked. They nodded. 

 "Definitely. Harmony is going to love it!" Leah declared. 

 "Then let's give this dress a makeover!" 

 With that, Leah set her sewing machine on the little table in mine and Michael's room. I laid out the dress while Louise laid out the lace and pearls. 

 "Marina, are you sure you know what Harmony has in mind?" Leah asked taking the lace. 

 "Yes, Leah. When she and Aerwyna were little, they would sometimes talk about their weddings. Sometimes I would be in the same room and over hear their conversations. Harmony would describe her dream dress. She's always dreamed of this kind of dress." She nodded and started work on the dress. 

Ambrose's POV:

 I noticed Delia's attitude was a little different. Leah told me a couple years ago that she was jealous because she hadn't found her mate. I didn't like my little girl feeling so sad. I hoped she'd find her mate soon. She just isn't the same...

 A couple weeks later, I decided to take Delia out for a father-daughter day. Just me and her. We hadn't had one of those in ages. I had Leah make us a picnic lunch. I think the day out really cheered her up a little. Between my work as Beta and preparing her brother to take over, I've been busy, so that could also be why she's upset...I always try to make time for my family, of course. I just don't spend a lot of time alone with them. I know that probably makes me sound like a bad husband and father. I don't mean to be! I do try to make as much time as I possibly can for them. Anyways, when we finally got to the park, I parked the car and got out. I walked over to Delia's side and opened it for her. 

 She smiled. "Thanks, dad.." 

 "Your welcome, Delia."

 I took the picnic basket and blanket out of the trunk and we went to find a good spot. I told Delia she could choose, so she chose a spot right next to a little stream. We laid the picnic blanket out and set up the food. 

 "Oh! Fried chicken!" Delia cheered. 

 I smiled. "Yep. I had your mother make it special." I replied, taking a piece of chicken. 

 "Cool! Mom makes the best fried chicken." she stated, taking a piece. 

 I took a bite of my chicken before speaking again. "Delia, I've noticed you seem a little down lately. I think I know why, too." She lowered her gaze. "I think it's over me not having as much time anymore, and your mate. Am I right?" Delia nodded but didn't speak. 

 "Honey, I know it's hard to wait for your mate. Since I was a little boy I wanted to find my mate quickly. It seemed to take forever for me to turn 16. And, Delia, I will always be there for you. Even when I'm busy, if you need me, I'll drop everything and come running. The same goes for your mom and Jack. I love you, sweetheart. Nothing will ever change that. Do you understand?" 

 Delia looked up at me and smiled. "Yes, dad...Thank you.." she said, hugging me. 

 "You've always been my little princess, you know that, right? Always have been, always will be." I smiled, ruffling her hair. "I actually have something to help us remember this moment." 

 "What is it?" Delia asked. I took out of my pocket a small, black, velvet box and opened it. 

 She gasped. "Oh, dad...It's beautiful..." 

 "Delia, can you give me your hand, please?" She nodded and gave me her hand. I placed the ring on her finger. 

 "This is meant to be worn until replaced by your wedding ring. I know you're upset you haven't found your mate yet. But trust me, the time will come. When both hearts are ready, they will unite and become one. When you both are ready, the moon goddess will send him your way." 

 Delia smiled. "I love you, daddy! I promise even after I get married I'll never take it off..." We hugged each other tight. 

 "I love you too, Delia..."