Out From the Shadows

Three months

July

I receive a letter from Camille once a week. Each begins with a formal greeting, then updates and information on the job offer. She even expressed that she would make me her main handmaiden if I wanted, though I would have to travel with her everywhere. I messaged her back after the first letter, about ten weeks ago, begging for more time. She responded saying she understood and that I have all the time in the world to decide.

Ashton hasn't given me his opinion, but I think he doesn't want to put anymore pressure on me. It would be great way to show Mr. Lakers just how special people, other than him, think I am. I would also gain more respect from others if I was at the queen's side, maybe even give her some advice if she will take it. I could daydream all day about the opportunities this chance would open up for me, but all I want right now is to enjoy what is in front of me.
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Camille's letters are getting on my nerves. I want Almarie to pick whatever choice will maker her happy, but it hurts inside to know that she may pick to go. I hope dearly that's not the case, but she still does somethings that surprise me every once in a while. One surprise being two weeks ago when we attended a formal party and she decided to charge through the muddy garden with the children, muddying and permanently ruining her expensive dress. The sight may have pleased many of the other guests, but the feeling didn't reach my parents.

August

Our bond has grown stronger in the past two months and have become inseparable. The most we have been apart is five hours and he was in a meeting and I was having a lesson with Josephine. I finished my lessons last week, having already mastered the art of articulation, walking, dancing and how to be a good wife. The last part I barely even listened to, nodding and smiling at the right times to act like I was.

At night, Ashton and I have "sleepovers", switching between mine and his so that we spend an even amount of time in each room. We only sleep, for now, but it's strange to have someone next to me. I'm a normally cold person and having him with me helps me sleep better, his warmth comforting and lulling.

******

We go out to movies, theatres, museums, wherever we desire to venture. Father is around a lot less, business is picking up and he is always in the office or in his room. It's a relief for Almarie and I because father isn't always on her case anymore, trying to find reason for me to leave her. He will never understand her charisma and the way it draws me too her like a magnet. No matter what, even if she killed someone, I would never ditch her. I understand that I should hold a grudge against my mother's killer, I do, but she never deserved it. Almarie, being raised practically on the streets and in the wild, knows how important a life is and would never hurt someone unless it was necessary. All dark thoughts aside, the days have passed sweetly and kindly.

September

The wedding date is set on the 18th of Abri, a week before my birthday. I'm thrilled, though if I was asked five months ago, I would have said "hell no". With the clock counting down to the big day, I have met more noblemen and ladies, people that the Lakers call friends. Some have taken a liking to me, others seem to despise a poor girl rising up so high. No matter what, I will be marrying Ashton and they will also be my friends.

Time is of the essence and every moment counts. I'm looking forward to tomorrow, definitely  because we have the entire day to ourselves, but also every new day brings another treasure.

******

Everyday I wake up with her body pressed to mine and I am reminded of the night at the waterhole, how free she was to express her personalities and what makes her happy. I ache when she leaves to go for another lesson with Josephine and when I have to work. Father has been pushing more responsibilities onto my plate and I have been getting busier and busier, but I will always make time for my love.

I love her, and it has been growing even more powerful than my common sense in the past three months. I love her more than anyone else in the world. I love her enough to do something I may regret. If I have Almarie and her love, then I don't need anything or anyone else.