Page 29 of Bound to the Bratva
The saleswoman nods thoughtfully as she retrieves a notepad and pen from her pocket, poised to capture each word with delicate strokes. "Traditional with a modern twist," she echoes. "That opens up a world of possibilities. Let's start by exploring some classic silhouettes."
She gracefully rises from her chair and moves toward the racks of dresses lining the walls. One by one, she brings them forward, each one seemingly more exquisite than the last. As we delve into the realm of classic styles, we discuss the differences of each.
She wants me to try them all on to see what styles I like, and what I'm not to keen on. I'm open to it and think by trying them on I'll learn more about what I really want.
We start with the ever-popular ballgown style---a fairytale creation that every little girl has ever dreamed about. The layers upon layers of cascading tulle create a voluminous skirt that surely makes any bride feel like royalty. We muse over the intricately beaded bodice and I decide it's an option. In a way, I am a princess—a mafia princess—even if I don't want to be.
I quickly get into the ballgown so I can go out there and get my friends' opinions. With the ballgown draped over my body, I step out of the dressing room and walk toward the stage, feeling the weight of the fabric swish around my legs.
The mirror reflects an image I never thought I'd see—a bride. A surreal mix of emotions washes over me as I take this in. The reality hits me like a ton of bricks. I really am going to be a bride.
Lori's eyes widen, her jaw practically hitting the floor. "Aria," she breathes, "you look absolutely stunning. Like a true princess."
Emily grins and rises, getting within a couple feet of me. She reaches out to touch the delicate lace on the bodice. "This is it," she announces with conviction. "This dress captures your essence perfectly—elegant and regal, yet with a hint of rebellion."
I turn to face the saleswoman, who watches me intently, her gaze filled with understanding. "What do you think?" she asks gently.
A surge of courage surges within me, and I find myself finally embracing my reality. "I think...I think this is the one," I admit with a quiver in my voice. "It's everything I've ever dreamed of, and I don't think I need to look at any others."
The saleswoman smiles warmly. "Wow, I'm shocked, but I'm also so delighted to hear that," she says softly. "But before we finalize anything, let me show you one more option—a dress that combines tradition and modern flare that might be a good contender in comparison to this one."
I'm curious more than anything and she disappears behind the racks. A few moments later she returns, holding a gown that shines in the soft lighting of the boutique.
The silhouette is sleek and fitted, and there are geometric patterns along the corset, while also having gemstones embroidered on it.
My eyes widen as I take in the stunning gown before me. Without a doubt, I know I have to try this on. "Do you mind if I go back to the dressing room and try this on?"
The saleswoman shakes her head, "No, not at all. I'll help you back there, though."
We both head back to the dressing rooms and the saleswoman unzips me.I slip out of the ballgown and into the new dress, feeling the fabric hug my curves in all the right places.
I waste no time walking back out to the stage. As I step out onto the stage again, my friends gasp at the beauty of this dress.
"Oh my god, Aria," Malia breathes, excitement lacing her voice "You look absolutely breathtaking. This dress... it's like it was made for you."
Emily nods in agreement, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "This is incredible," she says, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's bold and unique, just like you. I like this so much more than the last one!"
Lori speaks up, her eyes glued to me. "Agreed. This dress has your name written all over it, plus, it's badass."
The saleswoman smiles knowingly at me as I take in my reflection. "What do you think?" she asks, but I don't even know why she's asking. This dress is a much better fit on my body and for my personality. I don't even think we'll have to make any alterations.
I reply confidently, "This dress is the one I want."
A wave of excitement ripples through the boutique as we all celebrate my decision. The saleswoman smiles brightly, obviously happy with the choice I've made. "I know you said you liked the ballgown, but I had a feeling you were going to love this one."
I head back to the dressing room and slip out of this dress. I get changed back into my own clothes and walk over to the checkout area where the saleswoman is waiting. Almost three-thousand dollars later and I've just made one of the biggest purchases of my life, besides medical school.
God, I needed this.
I didn't know it at the time, but I needed to tell my friends about what was going on. I needed their support more than I ever realized.
Ten
Maxim
The looming day that I have been anticipating for so long has finally arrived, and it's hitting me with an unexpected force.
Anxiety courses through my veins, making me feel uneasy as I sit in a plush wooden chair on the second floor of the grand church where Aria and I are to be wed.
