Page 145 of The Strength Of A Woman

“It was Tullio and Killian.”

Her eyebrows slide up.

“You’re not worried about them?”

“No. Not really.”

“Who are they?”

“They’re the men who’ll help me eliminate Varela.”

She studies my face for a few moments, making note of how serious I am about the matter, and then, without a word, we walk toward the exit.

25

LEILANI

Paris

Everything is perfect.

The weather outside––a sunny day smiles behind the window.

The large room, which is part of a historic building with high ceilings and antique furniture.

The woman directing her helpers to move stunning wedding dresses from an adjacent room to the rack next to us.

The tall mirrors propped against the wall that allow me to check my wedding gown from every angle.

The man who watches everything with patience from an armchair.

And last but not least, the choices I have.

Going through all this, it’s hard to remember that this dress will serve no purpose other than being a prop in a play.

Although he’s repeatedly said that I’m dressing for him.

I can’t even think that something might go wrong and I might end up being that toad’s wife even for a moment before I slash his neck with a dessert knife.

Every time I think about Stefano Varela, my blood boils. The idea of him being my husband, even for a second, brings out the worst in me.

The same thing happens when I think about my family. For them to be so serene about something so wrong, like destroying me, a young woman’s life, and never thinking about the consequences of their actions?

Who does that?

I’m behind a screen now, where, with the help of two women, I put on my third pick.

There’s nothing wrong with the first two.

In fact, they’re both on the rack as possible choices, but this one?

Words fail me when it comes to describing it.

It features a corset-like strapless top and a voluminous skirt with an underskirt.

What truly sets it apart is the rich, handcrafted lace. I’ve never seen lace so beautiful as I’ve seen here.

Truly a work of art. The lace can be easily adorned with real flowers at the bottom of the skirt and on my corset.