History of Fictitious: Volume Three

Chapter 13

The last few days have exhausted me, yet I can't sleep. I'm excited, terrified, hopeful, yet prepared for the worst. Tomorrow is the big wedding day and when the last petal will fall.

I tuck my knees closer to my chest as I stare out the library window. This little nook has always been my favorite place, even when I don't plan on reading. It has a beautiful view of the grounds, and it is the spot where I discovered Shane's secret meetings with the stable boys.

"Can't sleep?"

Shane's red figure appears by my feet, taking up the rest of the window seat. I shake my head, praying that he'll never have to take that form again after tomorrow night.

"My brain refuses to shut off."

His ghostly fingers brush the top of my foot playfully. Unlike the other spirits, I can feel his touch somewhat, but it isn't as comforting as when he's in his physical form. Because it tickles, I react by kicking. My foot goes straight through his hand.

He chuckles, drawing his hand away. "I've missed you so much. I know we've been together throughout the week, but . . ."

"But never by ourselves? Yeah, my family refuses to leave me alone."

"It's refreshing. My family was nothing like yours. I believe my parents loved me and each other, but there was a lot of mistrust. For heaven's sake, my father doubted I was his son."

I adjust my sitting position, swinging my feet to the floor and scooting closer to Shane. I rest my hand next to his on the cushion.

"Everything will change starting tomorrow," I say, smiling.

He sighs. "For better or for worse. I worry I haven't done enough and that the Creator knows I'll let you down in the future. I can't help but think that's why the curse hasn't broken."

"I understand how you feel. Eternal love is tricky to prove. I've been doubting myself, too, even though I promised to be more optimistic."

"Then let's try to see ourselves through each other's eyes."

I nod. We stay quiet after that, merely enjoying each other's company. When the sunrises and fills the library with light, I immediately take his hand and sling it around me before leaning my head against his arm. I snooze peacefully for about an hour before Fern storms into the room.

"I've found them!" Fern shouts, startling me awake.

Shane clicks his tongue, and a look of disapproval crosses his face. He presses my body closer to his like he's preparing to protect me from a wild animal. I reciprocate by clinging to his white shirt. I don't want to be taken away from him.

"I can't believe this," Fern says, crossing her arms as she stands in front of us, "It was challenging to get you in the same room before, and now look at you! And don't you know, you're not supposed to see the bride before the wedding?"

"That's a bunch of rubbish, and you know it," Shane protests, "Just give us five more minutes."

"Master, I must request you release her."

I turn away from Fern, burying my face in Shane's chest. It's so cozy, and I finally got some sleep. I don't want to be surrounded by prattling women for the next twelve hours.

"Arabelle! Not you, too! Let go of him! Why are you both acting like children?"

"Allow me," Ned's voice says.

A pair of steel hands pry me away from Shane. I struggle at first but then allow the possessed suit of armor to drag me to my feet. I guess I can't stay in my nightgown all day. I did want to wear my wedding dress, after all.