Chapter Eighteen

Rayne

I stand by as Lady Veronica pays Marjorie and then follow her out of the tent.

I can't get over how great I feel in these clothes, and how different I feel altogether. I can barely contain my own excitement, despite the circumstances. I’ve always dreamt of looking this beautiful, and now that I don’t have to borrow anyone’s dress, I feel much better about it.

Even the guards are looking at me differently. It’s uncomfortable to be ogled, though, and I wish they would look away. I also wish Lady Veronica wouldn’t be so cold with me. It’s just that at times, I don’t understand her. She’s my friend one second and then a stranger to me the next.

“Rayne,” she says, stopping and whirling around to face me. “I’ve got to do something quick. I won’t be long. Will you stay here with the guards?”

“Yes,” I say, nodding.

She takes off after giving the guards a firm look and we stand near a stall and wait for her return. I fold my arms and look around. There are a few more people now, and