"After breakfast, let's pick out a new blood-bound ring for the ceremony. The custom one had some issues and won't arrive in time for the Union."
"Okay."
He enjoyed playing the role, so I would just go along with it.
Perhaps sensing my lack of enthusiasm, Ansel hesitantly brought out the first aid kit and applied medication to my knee. "Serafina, we've been promised to each other for years. Everything I've done is for your good. I don't want us to have a Union where you have no family present."
"You mentioned not finding an attendant? I've taken the liberty of asking Elara to stand as your attendant."
"Okay."
Ansel spoke cautiously, but when he saw my quick agreement, disbelief filled his eyes. He then took my hand and pressed a warm, lingering kiss on it.
After delivering breakfast to Elara, he didn't come back.
As I scrubbed my palms with fervor, his call came in on the clean line.
"Serafina, finish eating and come down to the garage. I'll be waiting in the car."
When I reached the garage, I instinctively opened the front passenger door, only to find Elara already sitting there.
Without a word, I took a seat in the back.