Everlasting Fate (Third Book)

Chapter Fourteen

Mid-June 2013

The center of town was buzzing with anticipation because the Summer King had been reported to be in Alex's realm. He had made his grand entrance into the realm by way of portal early that morning while the fae slept. But once word of his arrival spread, young and elder fae alike were waking from their sleep to finish last minute preparations around their homes and the town. I had never seen so many of Alex's people out and about at once. The streets were filled with more booths and craft sellers than ever before. Jolly music rang throughout the city and the wine was overflowing. Keegan had brought an entourage of Summer fae with him to join in the celebrations and to greet Alex's fae.

The rolling fields of grass and wildflowers where Alex and I usually meditated were one giant construction zone. The elders had convinced him to finally build himself a castle and start his own court. While I was sad to see my lovely scenic view ruined by the enormous castle the fae were building, I was in agreement that as a God he needed a palace or a castle of some sort. It would come in handy during the war and it would further unite his people who could come to live at court with him. Most of the elder fae had already been invited to reside there.

Cael had also sent word to all of the deities urging them to strengthen their armies and portals and build high walls around their towns to prepare for future demon attacks. Lucifer wasn't to be tested. No doubt he would try to find other ways into the realms to strike the deities from the inside. Although Alex despised putting these high walls around each of the cities and towns, he knew it would give more protection to his people living outside of the impenetrable castle. These walls were also currently in construction. Alex could easily conjure the castle and the walls himself, but his people believed in hard work and they refused to let him touch a single stone of either project. I knew inwardly he was extremely proud. His people worked day and night to build the castle and the walls. It was only a matter of time before they both stood tall.

"Your gown, miss." The dress maker interrupted my thoughts.

I glanced up and gaped at the beautiful creation she held in her hands. The shop was busy as fae women shopped for the finest gowns. There was a small line at the check-out counter and a group of women being measured in the back of the shop. Of course some of the elders were there, like Mila and Coleen, who insisted on teasing me about Alex incessantly.

There was a chorus of oos and awes as the dress maker laid the elegant gown against my body. I gazed into the mirror and sighed blissfully.

"It's a masterpiece." I purred.

"Your Grace will love it." Someone in the group chirped.

I narrowed my eyes at the forming circle and went back to staring at the dress in the mirror.

"It looks like a wedding dress!" Someone gasped. More excited whispers and giggles ensued.

I groaned. "It's not a wedding dress, you gossips!"

The women laughed at my spicy tone and continued conversing. I rolled my eyes and handed the dress maker a hefty bag of coins.

The dress did sort of resemble a medieval faery gown, but I hadn't meant for that. I wanted something that would symbolize purity and chastity, the exact opposite of how I often felt lately, thanks to Alex's feverish gazes and warm hands. No doubt Alex would have a heart attack at the sight of the dress. I desired for us to be friends only, and yet I had asked the local dress maker to create a lavish gown to impress him. I was so hypocritical and conflicted.