Chapter 11

VERONICA

"Veronica, what are you doing?" Emily asked. "You haven't prepared yourself yet."

"For what?" I reply, "Confused."

"For the presentation ceremony," she said sternly. "I forgot to instruct you on the things you need to know."

I nodded, feeling a little apprehensive. Emily was usually very demanding, but today she seems different. Maybe it is because she knew the stakes were high and that any mistake I made would reflect poorly on her.

As I stand there, unsure of what to do, Emily walks towards me and offers me a seat on my bed.

"Good morning," I say, trying to be polite.

"That's not necessary," she replied sharply. "We don't have time for pleasantries. You need to get ready now."

I felt a knot form in my stomach.

. "What should I wear?" I asked, hoping for some guidance. And preferably hoping that she won't have anything for me, and then she will suggest I just go back to sleep.

Emily smiled and opened a large trunk she had brought in. "I have just the thing," she said as she