Chapter 131: A Proposal and Preparations-2

Chapter 131: A Proposal and Preparations-2
The menu for the wedding feast is planned with meticulous care. Platters of roasted meats, fresh bread, and spiced wine will be served, along with an array of fruits and pastries. The air in the castle is filled with the mouthwatering aromas of the preparations, a tantalizing promise of the celebration to come.

One afternoon I’m picking out bouquet flowers with Seraphina when Mircea bursts into the room with her usual exuberance, her eyes sparkling with mischief. She looks at me with a knowing smile, and I can’t help but feel a surge of warmth and affection for my dear friend.

“So, you want me to be your maid of honor?” she asks, placing a hand on her swollen belly as she waves the handwritten letter that I’d slipped under her door hours earlier while she rested. “Are you sure about that? I might just waddle down the aisle instead of walk.”

I laugh, shaking my head. “Of course, I want you to be my maid of honor, Mircea. You’re my best friend, and I can’t imagine anyone else by my side on such an important day.”

Mircea’s eyes twinkle with playful mischief. “Well, just so you know, I’ll be stealing all the attention with this belly. People might think there’s another bride in the room, and she’s carrying a watermelon under her dress.”

“Then it’s settled,” I say, grinning. “We’ll make sure your dress is just as beautiful and accommodating as mine. Maybe we’ll add a special pocket for snacks, just in case the baby gets hungry.”

Mircea bursts out laughing, her laughter infectious. “You know me too well! A snack pocket sounds perfect. And speaking of dresses, are you sure we can find one that’ll fit me? I don’t want to look like a whale swimming through a sea of fabric.”

I roll my eyes playfully. “You’ll look stunning, Mircea. We’ll find a dress that accentuates your glow. Plus, you’re carrying a little miracle. That makes you the most beautiful person in the room.”

Mircea's expression softens, and she takes my hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. “Thank you, Ari. You have no idea how much this means to me. I’m so happy for you and Aleksandr. You deserve all the happiness in the world.”

I feel a lump forming in my throat, overwhelmed by the love and support radiating from Mircea. “Thank you, Mircea. I’m so grateful to have you by my side. You’ve always been there for me, and I can’t wait to share this special day with you.”

Mircea grins, her playful nature resurfacing. “Well, just so you know, I’m going to cry like a baby during the ceremony. It’s these pregnancy hormones. So, make sure you have an extra handkerchief ready.”

I laugh, feeling lighter than I have in days. “I’ll have a whole box of tissues ready, just for you. And don’t worry, we’ll get through this together, tears and all.”

Mircea’s smile widens, and she wraps me in a warm, comforting hug.

As we continue to banter and laugh, I can’t help but feel a sense of contentment. Everyone will be a part of my special day.

Seraphina will be the flower girl, her excitement boundless as she practices scattering petals down the aisle. "This is going to be the best wedding ever!" she exclaims, twirling in her new dress.

Luka and Konstantin will stand as groomsmen, their support a comfort to both Aleksandr and me. The entire castle buzzes with anticipation and joy, everyone coming together to make this day unforgettable.

As the wedding draws near, I find myself filled with a mix of excitement and nerves. The days are a blur of fittings, rehearsals, and final preparations. The castle, usually so dark and imposing, is transformed with flowers and decorations, a testament to the love and joy that will be celebrated.

Three nights before the wedding, I find myself alone in my bed, my thoughts racing. Aleksandr has been very traditional, avoiding any intimate moments since our engagement. It’s sweet and endearing, but I find myself missing his touch, his closeness. I honestly thought he wouldn’t be able to hold out, and I’d wake up one night to find him in my bed - but no such luck.

I guess it gives me more to look forward to on the wedding night.

I lie back on the soft pillows, staring up at the canopy above. The anticipation of the wedding in three days’ time and the Blood Moon Ceremony to follow fills my mind, a mix of hope and uncertainty.

As I drift off to sleep, I think about the future, about the challenges and joys that await us. With Aleksandr by my side, I feel ready to face anything. Together, we can overcome any obstacle, conquer any fear.

The last thought I have before sleep claims me is of Aleksandr’s smile, the love in his eyes, and the promise of a future filled with adventure and love.

And with that comforting thought, I let the gentle embrace of sleep take me - and I slip into the deepest, darkest nightmare imaginable.