Through the Gap in the Curtains

Stars and Butterflies

"It won't be the same without Dex," Sophie said to Fitz, sighing shakily.

"No..." he replied, wrapping his arm around her. "But after the Neverseen, nothing will ever be the same. We don't have a steady world right now, Soph. So we just have to try."

They were sitting on a bench outside Everglen, where they were going to get married. They had both gotten to the site of their union early, to spend some more time together before they were actually married. All around them, elves in finery of all colours bustled around, setting up, and the sun was shining in the sky. It shouldn't be so... perfect without Dex. Sophie thought, but it was.

Today was the day of their wedding, and everything was going smoothly. Except for most things. Dex was gone, Biana was locked in her room, and now they were having a wedding. Sophie just hoped that Biana would make it to the ceremony in time to help her with the dresses. Sophie had texted her, and she had responded with only a maybe.

"Yeah. I guess you're right. Hey, I'm going to go inside and get ready, okay? If Biana's not coming, I'll want a head start." Sophie said to Fitz, leaning down to plant a quick kiss on his cheek.

"Okay. And, Soph?" Fitz called after her. "I love you!"

Sophie smiled. "I love you too."

The inside of Everglen was painfully quiet, what with everyone outside for the weddings. Sophie sighed, her eyes downcast, and looked up at the staircase leading to her room. For better or worse, it was right next to Biana's. Sophie mounted the stairs with growing anxiety. Standing between the doors to their two rooms, Sophie debated for a moment, before heading into her own chambers, deciding to leave Biana to her grief.

Naturally, she was shocked when she entered to find Biana sitting on her bed, studying the material of Sophie's wedding dress.

"Hi, Sophie." she said, smiling as best she could.

"Biana? Are you sure you want to help? I know that you probably just want some time to yourself-"

"Of course I do, Sophie. You're my best friend. And let's be honest, without me, you'd be a wreck."

Sophie laughed weakly. "I guess you're right. Thanks, Biana" she sniffled.

"Save all the emotional stuff for when you're drunk after the reception, and take off your clothes. No, wait-" her cheeks reddened.

Sophie laughed, already stripping. "I know. Awkward moments."

They shared a laugh, and Sophie smiled. It was good to have Biana back.

"Here," Biana said, holding out the dress. "I chose well, didn't I? Anyways, slip this on."

Sophie smiled, nodding, and stepped into the dress, pulling it up around her hips. Careful not to rip the silky material, she slid her arms through the holes, and Biana zipped it up.

Sophie turned around to look in the mirror, but Biana stopped her.

"Ah! Not until I'm finished," she said, and grabbed the makeup case. Sophie groaned, and sat down on the bed as Biana tugged her hair up and anchored it with at least ten bottles of hairspray, before proceeding to attack her face with so many brushes and tubes that Sophie lost count.

"I'm keeping it natural," Biana said. "Just a bit sparkly."

"Natural," Sophie repeated. "What does that mean?"

Bina laughed. "I forgot you know nothing about this stuff. I'm only highlighting your best features. Not concealing anything. But I'm adding sparkles. Just around your eyes. And A bit in your hair-"