Shadow and Snow

Chapter Eleven | Smoke and Flames

Isla tightened her grip on her husband's arm as he led her through the maze of guests attending the New Moon's Eve ball, her skirts sweeping at her feet. She was dressed to perfection, midnight colored silk swirled around her, speckled with diamond stars. Jade has worked wonders, creating a luxurious gown to accommodate Isla's swelling waist, but still flattering her every curve.

Gazing around the room, she was struck with awe. The decorations were simple, yet elegant. The large Christmas tree had been removed, replaced by dazzling lights hung from the ceiling, creating a stunning constellation. An orchestra played softly, allowing couples to dance slowly in the middle of the room.
The change of scenery after a week of bed rest welcomed, and Isla planned to relish every moment of the party. Her husband gave her a warm smile, and led her to a raised platform where two thrones sat. He had been wary to throw such an extravagant party, but after several days of flattery and promises to stay seated the entire time, he gave in.

"If you feel even the slightest bit tired, let me know. And make sure to drink plenty of water. You know Eos said that dehydration can be serious." Isla squeezed his arm reassuringly,
"Pax, I'll be okay. Jade is going to be right beside me the entire time, and I'll drink lots of water." After he helped her sit on the throne, she leaned forward, giving him a delicate kiss. "Now, go do your royal duties, my Prince." Paxton rolled his eyes and kissed her deeply, before leaving to speak with ambassadors.

Smiling to herself, she turned to her friend, Jade. "I'm so glad you can come, I missed you terribly." Her friend gave a mock bow, "Thank you, your Majesty. I am honored to be in your royal presence." Snorting, Isla slapped her playfully on the shoulder. "How many times have I told you to stop calling me that? It makes me feel like I'm married to Henry the eighth or something." "I know, that's exactly why I do it." "Remind me again why you had to leave me here without your childishness?" Isla said with a laugh. "I was offered a position as an intern for a company I've dreamed of working with. They taught me so many amazing things, Is! I can't wait to start working on some of my new designs."

Isla placed a hand on her swelling belly. "Did they teach you how to sew clothes for pregnant women? I feel like I've been wearing the same three outfits over and over again." Jade tapped her chin, "They did, but not for ones quite as large as you." "Hey! A few years from now you'll be just as pregnant and swollen as I am now, just you wait." Isla laughed, as Jade imitated herself as a waddling pregnant woman.

For the past few months, Isla had felt like an over-filled balloon- waiting to pop at any second. She had gained over thirty pounds over the course of her pregnancy, and felt like her skin had been stretched paper-thin. Thankfully, her third trimester had been much easier than her first two, but her urges to pee had increased considerably.

"I've never thought to ask, but do you plan on settling down and having kids one day?" "I will as soon as I can find someone who loves me as much as Paxton loves you." She sighed wistfully. Isla's put her head in her hands, groaning. "I still don't know how I feel." "What do you mean? About what?" "A-about him!" Jade put her hands on her hips and glared.
"You what?! Isla, this man is in love with you. I've never met a man that's so perfect. You've been married for almost a year, don't you think that shows love? I mean, if he's seen how you act when you're eight months pregnant and still likes you, I think you have a keeper. And you're about to pop out his baby. A magical stork didn't put it in there!"
"I know, but when-"
"Isla, I don't want to sound rude, but frankly I don't care about your last relationship. It's over. There's no point in thinking about it. All you're doing is missing out on your Prince Charming because you're too busy crying about your dead hobo!"

Isla was shocked, though every word rang true. She massaged her temples, "I haven't even told him how I feel yet." Jade's mouth hung open, and she physically had to push it back up. "Isla! Are you crazy? You need to tell him! He deserves to know!
She's right. Isla thought, He does deserve to know. I've been so stupid, letting my past get in the way of my future. I'm going to tell him tonight- at midnight. Finally say the words he's been waiting so patiently to hear.
How did I get so lucky to marry him?