Page 27 of His Royal Request

She paused like she was thinking it through. “There’s the garden party at the palace, the family dinner the night before the wedding, then the wedding and reception that night. Though there might be some other dinners or gatherings through the week.”

“You seem so used to this. Is this not the first royal wedding you’ve been to?”

Her lips twisted into a smirk. “I’ve been to a few.”

Huh. Maybe this was more normal for Europeans. They were nonchalant about things like this because it wasn’t a rarity like it was for an American. Her relaxed attitude helped me settle a bit. Maybe this wasn’t as big of a deal as I was making it out to be.

“Okay, show me the next one.”

I went back into the room and scanned the dresses. A dove gray sheath dress with a defined waist that created pleats above and below stood out to me. It looked so classy, yet feminine. I changed into it quickly and sighed. It hit right at my knees and the short sleeves made me feel so poised and regal. Like I could stand next to Aiden with my head held high.

I opened the door and stood in the center of the mirrors.

Isla looked me up and down then motioned for me to turn. “With some pumps and your hair pulled back a bit this would be stunning.” She paused. “You’re beautiful, Charlie.”

I could feel my chest swell with the compliment. “Thank you.” I smiled looked at my reflection. In this dress, I felt beautiful.

I slipped on the pink dress with deep purple flowers next. It had long sleeves with a collar and bow at the neck. The skirt fell just past my knee. It looked like the perfect dress to twirl in. Before heading out I indulged in a quick spin and smiled as the skirt flared out. This would be perfect for the garden party.

I stepped out and did a few twists so Isla could get the full effect. “I love this one,” I said.

She laughed. “I do too.”

“Do you think I can wear it to the garden party?”

“It’s lovely, but something a bit more formal would be best.”

I nodded, grateful I had her here. “Do you think there’s anything this would be appropriate for?”

She grinned. “We can figure out something.”

“Okay.” Before going back to the fitting room, I did one more spin, making Isla giggle.

I scanned the rack looking for something that would be more formal, but still appropriate to wear outside. I settled on a pale-yellow lace dress. Once it was on, hugging all of my curves without being too form-fitting, I fell in love.

I took a breath and stepped out, hoping I’d get the right reaction from Isla. She looked up and instantly a grin appeared. “That’s perfect.”

I relaxed and looked at my reflection from all angles. I swear these dresses were magic. They covered everything I normally complained about and flattered my best features. Who knew there were dresses out there this perfect?

“I really love this,” I said.

She nodded. “It’s just right. Now, I put a peach one in there I want you to try for the wedding.”

I was a bit confused. “I thought that was what the blue gown was for.”

“That’s for the reception. At the wedding, you’ll want to go a bit more understated.”

“I’m so grateful you’re here, Isla. I had no idea what I was thinking when I agreed to come.”

“It can be a bit overwhelming, especially when you’ve had no time to prepare.”

I bit my lip. “Yesterday I was planning on staying in Galway for a few days before heading home, but then I met Aiden and everything changed.”

Her eyes widened and I realized I’d made a horrible mistake.

“I knew it!” She wasn’t angry like I’d been expecting. She just started laughing. “Oh, what has my brother gotten himself into this time?”

I was frozen. I’d been here for a few hours and I’d already ruined things. “Isla, please. I didn’t mean to—”