"I agree." Liv nodded, staring at my reflection in the mirror as I looked at myself, too.
"You look beautiful, Mommy."
"Thank you, my love."
I tried on the other mermaid dress next. This dress took my breath away with its beauty. It had thin lace straps that led to a stunning lace bodice. The material hugged the curves of my body just right. The intricate lace detailing was delicate and feminine, adding a touch of romance to the overall design.
The bodice was fitted, and flared out into a full skirt, creating a flattering and timeless look. The skirt was made of luxurious satin fabric that draped beautifully, creating a soft and flowing effect.
It featured a court train that added a touch of drama and sophistication to the overall design. The train was long enough to make a statement, but not so long that it became difficult to manage.
I didn't even have to look at the last dress. This was the one. I just knew it. When I stepped out and saw everyone's eyes, I knew they were feeling the same way. Calliope smiled so brightly at me I nearly cried. I loved seeing her look at me that way…with love.
"Oh, Lisa," Mom cried with misty eyes as her emotions got the better of her. "This is the dress, isn't it?"
I nodded. My heart was feeling a powerful wave of emotions pass through me. It was hard to put into words, but it was like everything was just falling into place. I had somehow got a man I didn't even know I needed. He was my dream come true, a manifestation of a perfect man catered just for me.
"You've always looked good in white." Liv smirked at me, but I didn't miss the twinkle in her eyes.
"This is the dress."
I would be marrying my dreamsoon.
31: Future Genius
Lisa's P.O.V.
"I know she's been through a lot before she was placed with you, but we do not tolerate violence in this school. You need to have a serious talk with Calliope about her behavior. We can only be so understanding."
It took everything in me not to yell at this woman before me. She called herself the headmistress, but I would call her a warden with the way she treats the children. She doesn't deserve to hold the title of principle.
"We'll talk to her, Mrs. Vinx. We appreciate your understanding and will take her home for today. Thank you," Davis answered.
Davis surprised me with the way he was calmly handling this. He stood, and I followed, seeing he was ready to leave even though Mrs. Vinx seemed anything but done. I followed him out of the office, seeing Calliope with tear-streaked cheeks on a small chair beside the door.
"Let's go," Davis told her, walking right past her.
She hurriedly followed, not taking my hand when I offered it. I don't know what Mrs. Vinx said to her, but I could tell it affected her. That phone call this morning made no sense. According to the pompous woman, Calliope just hit a student for no reason. I don’t believe it for a second.
I would defend her even from Davis if I had to, because I knew Calliope hated violence. She wouldn't hit anyone, and if she ever did, it wouldn't be for no reason. It would be for an amazing reason, a life and death one, probably.
It didn't take long for us to get home from the school. Davis pointed to the couch without a word for Calliope to take a seat. I was getting mad at Davis for seeming so furious at Calliope for this. He should know better than to believe Mrs. Vinx.
"Calliope soon-to-be-Havard!" His voice was stern as he called her name.
The tagged last name made my heart swell with joy for a moment before remembering the situation. I would fight him about this. I know my girl, and this was not like her.
"What is rule number four?" He asked her with his arms crossed and his face unreadable. Calliope hung her head under his gaze, staring at her hands on her lap as she mumbled her answer.
"Tell you or Mommy if I am having any problems about anything."
"That's right! So why didn't you tell me that Mrs. Vinx has been picking on you?"
I was so shocked, not expecting this turn of events at all. He didn't believe the so-called headmistress. No, he was upset that Calliope hadn't spoken to us about it. She didn't follow the rules we had established for her. I had been so focused on defending her. I hadn't even thought about it. Davis was right.
"She's the principal. I didn't think you would believe me," she whispered, refusing to look up at either of us.
"Calliope, look at me," Davis said, kneeling before her. "We will always believe you. You are an honest girl, and we trust you. There's no way you hit another girl today. I know that, and I'm sure Mommy does, too." I nodded my head in confirmation as Davis continued. "So start talking, little lady, because I want to know what this woman has done that I am not aware of."
