"Okay," I nod. "When can I see her?"

"Anytime after the ball. Everyone is busy setting up everything for tonight now."

"Tonight..." I repeat with a frown. My eyes widen as it dawns on me that today is the day of Wyn's debut. Time passed so quickly and I've been so busy that I'm ashamed to say I... forgot.

"I was on my way to you to help you with your hair and makeup. There are certain expectations for a society ball..." Thea drones on as she explains that unmarried women are expected to dress their hair and do their makeup in a specific fashion. Even as I attempt to protest that I'm married, she shushes me, telling me it doesn't really count since I have no husband.

The statement hurts, but it's true. Nikki has been missing for a while now. But even if he were here, would I just go to the ball with a shadow on my arm?

The thought makes me crack a smile.

"Let's do this, then," I tell her.

She winks at me and quickly runs to bring her supplies. Meanwhile, I shower and place the dress I'd gotten for the ball on the bed, careful not to wrinkle it. It's a beautiful mix of white and pink tulle, all tied together with a wide pink belt at the waist.

When Thea returns, she does my makeup, applying a glow foundation, some blush to my cheeks, and a dash of highlighter on my cheekbones. For my eyes, she goes for a clean and natural look, with a thin black liner, mascara, and a dot of highlighter in my inner corners and in the middle of my lower lid. Next is my hair, and she curls it before adorning it with a myriad of pink bows to match my dress. Apparently, unmarried females must aim to look innocent and young to attract the attention of a potential suitor. I refrain from telling Thea that I'm not looking for any suitor. Since this is the way people dress for such occasions, who am I to say no? When in Rome, you do as the Romans do, no?

She helps me slide into my dress before she circles around me to make sure everything is in order.

"Perfect," she declares with a smile.

"What about you? You've spent so much time on me, when are you going to get ready?" I ask as I look at the clock. It's already afternoon. The ball is supposed to start in a few hours...

She snaps her fingers and her hair is already curly, her red locks complemented by blue bows. Her dress, too, changes. She's now wearing a light blue gown with an empire waist and a light skirt. The detailing on her dress is a dark blue to match her hair accessories.