Illusions

Chapter 8

   Esmeralda was frozen, not knowing what to do. "Darling?" Her mother asked, pulling her out of her shocked stated.
   "Give me time, and I will let you know my decision" was all Esmeralda said before she walked briskly away, leaving her mother staring after her.

      Three months later.....

    Esmeralda walked into the throne room, her head held high, with Sam scurrying behind her. "Mother, father, there's someone I'd like you to meet. This is Sam". He stepped out from behind her and bowed.
    "Your majesties"
     "You may rise" boomed her father's voice. Sam straightened back up.
      "I've made my mind up on who I'll marry" Esmeralda said, turning to face her other suitor. "Prince John, it was very generous of you to give me such a great gift, but I must decline your offer of matrimony".
      She turned back to her parents. "I want to marry Sam, if you'll give us your blessing".
      "Of course, my darling" her mother said.
      Her father added, "we just want you to be happy".
      "You'll regret this" Prince John seethed, his face red, while everyone turned towards him. "I'll make sure of it, if it's the last thing I do". He stormed out, his footsteps fading behind him.

           2 months later......

    Esmeralda was finally marrying Sam. She was wearing the dress that Prince John had given her, feeling absolutely beautiful.
     "You look absolutely stunning, my lady" her maid said.
     "Thank you, Jane" Esmeralda smiled. "As a reward for your loyalty and kindness, I'd like to make you my lady in waiting".
   Tears formed in Jane's eyes. "That's more than I deserve, my lady" she protested.
   "Nonsense" Esmeralda waved her hand. "You deserve the world. But I do hope that along with being a lady, and that certain boy you've had your eyes on, a lord," Esmeralda winked. "Wearing a beautiful dress might help make up for it as well. Would you mind carrying my train for me?" She asked while the dress was revealed.
      Jane gasped. "Oh my lady! Yes!" Then Esmeralda helped her into the dress, before they departed for her wedding.

A/N: What do you think? I selected a dress, and it's not quite perfect, but I like it XD. Maybe I'll sketch a picture of what it looks like in my mind....eventually. There's only a little bit left of this story (I decided not to do a wedding scene, sorry), so soon we'll have to say au revoir to our beloved Esmeralda. I hope you all have a wonderful week!

Bisous!

~Hannah~