Aurora’s P.O.V

Two agonizing hours of holding still in front of the mirror later, I’m finally ready. The shimmering white gown I’ve chosen falls neatly to my knees, its boat neckline simple yet elegant, a quiet statement against the extravagance Maya tried to impose on me with her dress.

I smile faintly at my reflection, running my fingers over my mother’s pendant resting at the base of my throat. It’s the only piece of jewelry I wear, and it feels like a shield, ...