Elara stood silently looking at the lavish dress laid out on the table.
Her mind bounced all over the place.
Why would he choose such a dress?
Can I even wear this? Surly I will be deemed improper if I were to step foot out of this room wearing this.
"The merchant told me this is the latest fashion. Go ahead, put it on. I would like to see."
Elara didn't even turn to meet his gaze, she just kept staring at the dress.
It was a beautiful dress, light blue material with cascading sleeves. The bodice however was a lower cut than what she has ever worn before. To add, It also was designed to completely expose her shoulders. Not even her nightgowns showed her upper body this way.
"Gabel...this dress is improper for court."
"What? How so? I thought you would find it beautiful."
She turned her head and met his eyes.
"My shoulders will be completely exposed. Not only that but the bodice is so low cut I'm afraid much of my...."
She paused for a moment as a slight flush spread over her face.
"It will show too much of my chest! The noblewomen will all spread their gossips about me!"
Great.
First they see her in a plain and underwhelming dress. Now tonight they shall see her improperly exposed.
Elara heard the sound of water drip onto the floor. She turned and saw Gabel step out of the tub.
"Nonsense. You haven't even tried it on. Come now, put it on before you decide it is unworthy."
"I never said unworthy!" She flashed an angered look his way before throwing the blanket on the floor and attempting to step into the dress.
"I can not tie the back, do you mind helping me?"
A second later she felt Gabel's warm hands around her waist.
"If I ever say yes to that question...just know I am unwell."
He pulled the strings back tightly on her bodice.
"Alright, spin and show me the front."
Elara glanced down at her breasts. As well as being low cut, the minute the gown was laced, it caused her breasts to pop up even higher.
"This will not work Gabel...it's too.."
His hands firmly grabbed her waist once more, swiftly spinning her around.
He looked at her silently for a moment then took a few steps back.
"Mmm yes. This is the perfect dress. Never in the history of attractive women has there been one more than you. I feel as if my eyes will burn from your beauty."
Her worried expression soften some upon hearing his sweet words.
Several minutes later Clair who was sent by Maximillian, came to tend to Elara's hair.
She elegantly braided two front strands and joined them in the back. For a final touch she placed several small gold pins in the back of her joined braided pieces.
"Are you ready?" Gabel popped his head out from behind a divider where he was dressing.
Elara's eyes widened at her own husband's attire. He had on his ceremonial knights robes. His hair was neatly styled back, leaving only one small strand that fell across his forehead.
He looked so handsome and gallant.
"Yes...I believe I am ready."
