The Prettiest Smiles Hide The Deepest Secrets

I smiled broadly at my maidservant as she fastened the last pin into my dress. Today was finally the day. 

"My, my, such a lovely dress for such a pretty lady!" Frieda exclaimed as I twirled and twisted, hoisting my skirts up just above my small creme-colored shoes so she could see them sparkle. Made from the finest silk, my strapless white dress was perfect for today's events. Everything was in place. Everything was perfect.
I gazed down and fingered the soft material. Privy to my intentions, the seamstress had done a stunning job of cutting the body of the dress to fit flawlessly around my lithe figure. Easy to slip in and out of, I'd asked. Frieda's pins would be something to work around, but as I stretched my arms out in front of me, I was certain there would be no problem...
"There you are, darling! What is taking so long? Your dress looks fabulous, my dear. I barely recognize you!" a voice exclaimed loudly from behind me. I whipped my head around to see the fearsome General Rhoan of Alhena lowering his head to cross under the threshold into my dressing chamber. He was a muscular, robust man who proudly towered over most of the people in the entire kingdom, though his height and build often made doorways a challenge for him to get through. He, too, looked impeccable in honor of the occasion. The thick, full beard that distinguished his rugged demeanor was trimmed and tamed, and his blood red cloak had not stitch out of place. The family crest practically shined on his chest with the dark gold and maroon fastened onto his breast pocket. Known for his tirelessness and determination, he was a noble and just leader of Alhena's warriors. There was no one but the King himself higher in status. This man was the top dog. He was also my father.
He guffawed loudly as I ran over to give him a bear hug, and he spun me around like I was a doll, much like he had done often when I was a young girl. "Now, Daddy, don't step on my dress! Isn't it gorgeous? Don't you just love it?" I questioned, grinning happily. He chuckled again and raised his bushy eyebrows as if pondering the question. "I think...well, how do I put this..." He scratched his temple thoughtfully for a moment, but his smile widened as he grabbed my face and kissed my forehead. "You look just like your mother did on her wedding day. She would have loved to be here today to watch you walk down the aisle. And marrying the prince, of all people! I knew you were destined for greatness. We all knew from the moment you were born. I couldn't be more proud." A single tear leaked from his deep brown eye as he looked down at me. Burying my face in his shoulder, I held him tightly and said "I know, Daddy." He sniffled a little but it was only a moment - he would never let himself have a good cry. The last time I'd seen him cry was at Mother's funeral. I thought of her image in my place as I looked in the mirror. We did look similar; 

Okay, this isn't finished...I'll finish it soon...just...so...lazy...

Author's Note

Okay, this isn't finished...I'll finish it soon...just...so...lazy...