#Chapter 27: The Princes’ Preference

I looked in the mirror, barely recognizing myself. It was the night of the First Ball, and I was dressed in my beautiful, shimmering yellow gown. It was sleeveless, with a tasteful V-neck bodice. One of my maids had tied my brown hair into a tight up-do, with a few loose tendrils tucked behind my ears. Beside me, Elva was a near-mirror figure of me, though her dress came up to her neck. It shimmered the same, and she couldn’t stop giggling as she spun in circles. Bright and laughing, she looked like the physical embodiment of sunshine. I pulled her into a quick hug. “You are a princess, Elva.” As we went to the door, the strange maid stopped me. “Don’t forget your gloves.” She handed them to me. “Thank you.” I was relieved. I knew there were traditions about gloves and their length. It would have been a faux pas to show up without any. I turned to thank the quiet maid as well, but she was further back in the room and not looking at us. I resolved to thank her later instea