Chapter 15 15

• I stared at my reflection, barely recognizing the woman in the mirror. The dress was gorgeous impossibly so but it felt like a shackle, not a gown. The chapel train fanned out behind me, glittering in the sunlight, the platinum embroidery catching the light in a way that only reminded me how precious I had become to them. The empire waist, cinched tight with a white satin ribbon, made me feel more like a sacrificial lamb than a bride.
• “I love the sweetheart neckline. It gives you breathtaking cleavage.” Aunt Livia’s voice was far too bright, and it made me want to scream. She was Aurora’s mother, and her approval felt like a slap.
• “Lorrenzo will surely appreciate it,” Aunt Ornatella added with a smirk that didn’t reach her eyes.