Arranged To Be|18+✔️

'12

My hands couldn't stop shaking and my legs wouldn't stop bouncing as I sat in the chair, letting some random lady pin and curl my hair. It was my wedding day.

My wedding day.

The words felt foreign in my mouth, surreal in my head. Earlier, I'd locked myself in the bathroom and cried until Lada knocked, coaxed me out, and reminded me I had to face this head-on. I hated that she was right.

I hadn't seen Czar all week. After the gala, he left to start his bachelor party early and hadn't been home since. I chose not to have a bachelorette party. I didn't even invite my family. I didn't expect support from them—not after everything. Maybe Czar would fill the empty chairs with random strangers.

My mother had called five times. I hadn't answered once. I told security not to let her or my father anywhere near the property. Josiah was welcome to come—but I knew he'd feel out of place, just like I did.

"You're going to look so pretty," Lada said sweetly.

I bit my lip and nodded, not trusting myself to speak. Her kindness was genuine, but it couldn't fix this. I was giving my life away today, and no amount of blush or curling irons could distract me from that.

Irina had been crying since she arrived and saw me in makeup. I barely knew the woman, but she'd been more motherly in the last hour than my own mom had in years.

"I know this isn't your dream wedding," Irina said, patting my shoulder, "but my Czar is a good man. He'll take care of you. If it ever becomes too much—if you truly want out—I'll help you."

"Really?" I whispered.

She wiped at her tears and smiled. "Yes, really."

I whispered my thanks, turning to face the mirror. The woman staring back looked flawless—stranger-like. The makeup artist had done a perfect job. I almost couldn't recognize myself.

Annika appeared behind me, eyes sparkling. "Do you feel it yet?"

"Feel what?"

"The nerves. The excitement. You're getting married in less than an hour."

I looked down at my hands. "Not really."

She stepped away in silence. Maybe I'd hurt her feelings. She and Czar were close—closer than I'd ever expected. But what did she want from me? A happy dance?

"Is your mother not coming?" Lada asked gently. "I haven't seen her. I can delay the ceremony if you're waiting for someone."

I shook my head. "She's not invited. None of my family is. We're not on good terms."

Lada nodded in quiet understanding. "Well, let's get you into your dress."

She helped me out of the chair and over to the closet. The moment she pulled down the gown, I nearly cried.

Czar had it custom-made by Darcey Couture.

The top half of the dress was solid white silk with long sleeves and a plunging neckline. It clung to my figure like it was tailored just for me—because it was. The bottom flowed into intricate lace roses, trailing long behind me in a stunning train. It was beautiful. Heavy, but perfect.

The stylist had pinned my hair into an elegant updo, and the entire look came together seamlessly.

Irina returned with something sparkling in her hands—a diamond crown.

"This was mine," she said. "Lada didn't wear it. Annika's not ready. I want you to have it."

I could only nod, allowing her to place it on my head. When I turned to the mirror again, I nearly burst into tears.