ZURI

“Calm down,” Denny said softly. His voice was a low, steady rhythm against the chaos in my chest.

I sat before the mirror, staring at my reflection. My hands were trembling, my lips parted slightly as my eyes darted from my reflection to the flickering candles behind me.

The gold fabric of my ceremonial gown shimmered faintly, catching the soft light, but my pulse wouldn’t slow.

“I’m calm,” I lied, pressing my palms against my knees. My voice came out thin and ...