Page 114 of We Three Kings

The worry in her voice can easily be eliminated. “How about we host it at our house?”

“Our…house?” The reminder of our relationship makes her blush. “Really?”

Her stunned delight is adorable. “Of course. It’s your home too and your friends are welcome anytime. When do you want to host it?”

“The Saturday after next?”

“Done.”

“Oh my gosh!” She grabs onto me again, finally, and peppers kisses on my cheek. “Thank you! Thank you so much!’

“You’re welcome.”

“I have to call Bree and let her know.”

I nod approval and she grabs her phone. I’m a fucking genius. Now the friends will think I’m a hero and hopefully never try to convince her otherwise.

Seraphina

Ifeel so fancy.

I look fancy too.

My reflection in the wall of mirrors behind the round platform glistens from the flute of champagne in my hand. This is so much fun. I’m not the only one who loves being here to help Bree pick out her wedding dress.

Bree’s mom and grandmother chat in giddy tones while they watch for my friend to come out from behind the curtain while Alex’s mother looks at a shelf lined with sparkly belts. I think she’s too excited to sit still.

With the help of the bridal shop assistant, Bree steps from the dressing room, and my heart explodes from her smile.

She’s gorgeous, glowing with so much anticipation. I want to jump up and hug her but remain seated so as not to wrinkle the silky material or spill my drink.

The other women don’t hold back, rushing to her. I understand. If my own mom were here, maybe she’d be the same way. I don’t remember her anymore, so I don’t know.

The sensation is strange. I miss the idea of her but not her as a person. I don’t even know what she looked like, since Gabriel and I never had any photos or anything. He’s all I remember of my family.

Maybe that’s why I fit in with Balthazar, Gaspar, and Melchior. I’ve been surrounded more by men than women with my brother, Alex, and their football buddies. Quinn and especially Bree have been the only females in my life who love me.

Our eyes meet in the reflection through the chaos, and she offers me a hesitant smile. “Do you like it?”

I nod. “I love it. You look absolutely breathtaking.”

The woman guides her to climb onto the small podium, which allows us to fully see the appliques on the back and the glistening train. “But more importantly—what do you think?”

“I love it too.”

She turns slowly to see the gown from all angles.

“I was worried I’d have to settle since I have to buy one off the rack. But it’s perfect. It’s exactly what I wanted.”

I had the same fear since her choices would be limited without time to order one to ship here. But she’s thrilled and I’m relieved. Everything really is coming together.

While the stylist navigates the frenzy with the mothers and grandmother all asking questions and making suggestions, I wander through the bridesmaid section.

We planned on green but there aren’t any on either rack. I find a cranberry dress with a smooth silk top, lacy flare skirt, and velvet belt with a side-bow. The style is minimal but fun.

I slip the hanger off the bar and drape the material over my arm, returning to my seat. Perfect timing because the assistant is pinning a sparkly tiara to Bree’s hair.

She said she didn’t want one, but the veil looks amazing. The picture is complete, and I get sappy with emotion. “Now you really look like a bride.”

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