“In my defense, I wasn’t even aware you were out there.”
Kian smirks. “He knows that, but his ego is bruised.”
“I apologized.”
Zaria chuckles. “Fae hold grudges.”
“We do. It’s a thing,” Kian adds, standing there patiently while Zaria meticulously takes each garment from him and places it in the wardrobe.
Zaria continues organizing the garments, her fingers delicately smoothing out any creases as Kian watches her with amusement.
“So, what’s Raiden doing today?” he asks, breaking the silence.
Zaria pauses for a moment but doesn’t look at either of us. “How should I know?”
Kian raises an eyebrow, a mischievous glint in his eyes. “I assume you two were close. It was his rooms you were–”
My eyes widen as Zaria spins on Kian, her face red. “Be quiet.”
“So, it’s true?” Kian chuckles. “You and the captain.”
Zaria squares her shoulders and swiftly grabs a gown from him. “I don’t know what you're talking about.”
My eyes dart back and forth between them in amusement.
“I need some popcorn,” I giggle.
Zaria’s attention snaps to me, a smile playing on her lips before she turns back to Kian and points her finger at him. “We aren’t talking about this, now or ever.”
“You’re no fun.” Kian winks.
I walk up to the wardrobe and peer at the rows of dresses.
“Why so many?”
“Need one for every occasion,” Zaria shrugs.
“She is playing dress up with you.”
“I am not.”
Kian stares at her, and I laugh. “Well, I don’t mind either way. They are gorgeous. I’ve never worn anything this beautiful, so I appreciate it very much. I didn’t even get a dress for my prom.”
Zaria frowns, her ears twitching. “Prom?”
My face heats, realizing they have no idea what prom is. “Prom is a formal dance held at the end of the school year for juniors and seniors. It’s seen as a rite of passage. A memorable night for most.”
“So like a ball?” Zaria asks.
“Exactly.”
“Why did you not get a gown?” Kian questions, handing Zaria the last dress.
I shrug my shoulders, attempting to downplay the situation. “My foster parents used the money to go to a concert instead.”
Truth is, I was devastated.
The prom was supposed to be a magical night, a chance to feel like a princess for once in my life. Yet, my foster parents had chosen their own desires over mine, leaving me feeling discarded and unimportant. Mixed in with my teenage emotions and hormones, it was a truly challenging time. I had to watch as my friends excitedly prepared for the dance, picking out their perfect dresses and discussing their plans for the night. It was a constant reminder of what I was missing out on, a stark contrast to the neglect I experienced at home.
