Page 29 of Frost and Death
Betina holds my hand, a quiet force of support I am unworthy of.
I finally work up enough courage to tell Betina everything said between Niko and me, my heart breaking again when I apologize for dragging her into my problems.
She leans over, hugging me tightly. “Friends help each other on their good days and their dark days, Tove.”
My lip quivers. “Thank you.”
She pulls away, with a shift in her entire demeanor.
I cock my head in confusion.
A smirk appears as she rests her hands against her hips. “Now, let’s ensure every person in attendance tonight recognizes thehonorof being in your presence.”
I shake my head as she leaves to help with preparations for tonight and to ensure Niko keeps his distance before the party.
With the pain dulling, I pray once more to the Makers I will be able to live up to my word and muster enough confidence to get through tonight’s ball.
6
Leave Them Wanting
“Are you serious?” I blanch as Betina wiggles her eyebrows, holding upanotherrevealing gown.
It is made of sheer fabric, with the darkest shades of red layered delicately atop one another. Embellishments of maroon roses and forest green shrubbery start beneath the neckline and cascade downward as the tiered material, thickest in the bodice, becomes more transparent as the full skirt reaches the floor, framing a thigh-high slit on the right side of the dress.
Inching forward, I run my hand along the fabric, admiring the beauty of it.
While I wish there was more cloth to conceal the monster wearing it, my stomach flips with a small gleam of excitement in dressing in the best of our kingdom’s fashion.
“Does it have pockets?” I ask.
Betina’s expression falters. “Unfortunately not.”
I press my lips together, unable to formulate words over the lack of pockets. Not only do they hide my nerves, but they keep my hands warm and allow me the opportunity to carry Mother’s mirror on rough days. Having it yesterday was a comfort, and to have it taken away for tonight has my stomach churning.
Betina is quick to cast my worries aside when she rests the gown on my bed. “All will be well, Tove.”
She, of course, chose her own dress to be the opposite of mine.
Hers is modest and tight around her bodice and shoots outward from her waist. The deep rust-colored tulle accentuates her skin tone while complementing the chestnut highlights that brighten her hair.
I look back and forth between her and my own gown, my mind wandering with varying scenarios that could unfold tonight. I replay my conversation earlier with Niko, and my chest aches.
As if knowing my mind wandered to him, Betina says, “Fuck Nikolaj.”
I snort.
She holds me, her voice gentle as she says, “The entire purpose of this week is for you to find an eligible suitor. Don’t dwell on him.”
Betina has never judged me for falling for Niko and was supportive of whatever decision I made regarding my affections. But she is right.
I need to make the best of tonight regardless of the pain I am in. Physically and emotionally.
Flashing her a hint of amusement, I offer some small news. “Well, there was a suitor—”
“And you didn’t think to tell me?”
A small laugh escapes me. “I am telling you now, aren’t I?” I huff as her eyes squint, thinking I wouldn’t tell her.
