Chapter 48

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Chapter 48

Standing in the dressing room, I peak out from the behind the curtain to see an array of reporters from news crews to those looking for a scoop for the Zalaris Star - the Capitol City's news paper – and even some with little blogs that were invited. It seems that my Uncle spared no corners when it came to inviting anyone who could get the word out.

"Are you okay?" Sky's voice is just beside my ear, making me jump as I turn to face him. He chuckles, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear and making me smile.

"Nervous, but I can do it." I answer, taking his free hand in mine and relishing in his touch. Alice had told me that Sky went to check on Juden and the security in the dungeon before he ran into Ron and my grandfather. She had sent a Maid to find the three men to come meet us in the Broadcasting Room, which they thankfully did. I don't think I could face all those people waiting in the crowd for me without Sky beside me.

"Well, you get through this and we can go on a much needed date." He leans down and presses a soft kiss to my lips, preventing me from saying anything for a moment. Date. He said date. I smile into the kiss as I think about what we could do for our date before the kiss ends and he straightens, staring down at me with a smirk.

"Where are we going for our date?" I question, the anxiety of facing the room full of people forgotten.

"Where ever you want to go, Allisara." He whispers my name, the sound of it coming of his tongue making me shiver in delight. I know I should say something, correct Sky into calling me Alli like always but I can't help and like the way he says my name. Its like he is claiming me as his. The truth is, I am his, at least I hope I am. Maybe this long awaited date can be the one we clear up who we are to each other.

"I have a place in mind we can go, Skylard ." My voice is also a whisper, not wanting to disturb this small moment between us. His smirk drops in surprise before a bright smile shines on his face, my own lips curving into one that I know matches his. Our moment comes to an end though as Ellisia walks towards me, telling me it is almost time for the broadcast and that I need the final touch ups before I face the crowd.

Ellisia had come to help with preparations for today, helping Uncle Christopher with everything from welcoming the press to bringing refreshments. When the reporters and press were sat in the room just beyond the curtains I stood behind, she came to the dressing room to help all of us that will be standing on the stage look presentable.

"Sorry Sky but I need her now." She shrugs, taking my hand and pulling me towards the small vanity where she retouches my makeup. Liz comes up behind us, her face filled with admiration and grandmotherly love as we look at each other through the reflection.

"Would you like to do the finishing touch, my Lady?" Ellisia asks Liz, backing away and motioning to the tiara that sits on the vanity. It isn't the usual amethyst one I wear but a decorative rose gold with diamonds and a ruby statement piece.

"Just call me Liz, dear." Liz calls out, making me laugh as Ellisia looks at her with a look of confusion.

"I am sorry my Lady, but seeing as your are the Princess' grandmother, you will be addressed as such." I can see Liz wanting to argue with her, but she decides not to as Ellisia lifts the pillow the tiara rests on and holds it out to Liz. The elderly woman sighs and, with shaky hands, she lifts the tiara from the pillow and places it gently onto my head. She gently rearranges my curly locks around the tiara before backing away.

"Beautiful." She mumbles, her smile filled with pride.

"I agree." My grandmama muses as she comes to stand beside Liz.

"Now lets head onto the stage before Christopher has a conniption." She adds with a laugh, motioning for Liz to follow her as she walks towards my grandfather and Ron. Sky comes to stand beside me, offering his hand to me which I take, standing to my feet and joining the others at the entrance. I think about what Ellisia said, of Liz being my grandmother, and she is right. Liz and Ron are my grandparents just as much as Lillian and Everette are.

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