The Dark Halo

A Few Years Later

Anya woke up. Today was her 20th birthday. Three years had passed since she started dating Antoine. And, her father had organized their marriage to be today.

Anya got up and put on her sage morning dress. She then put on her gold earrings, which had her favorite pearls dangling from them. Antoine gave them to her on their 2-year anniversary. Putting on her white slippers, she opened her door. “Already up, honey?” A croaky voice came from back inside her room. Anya giggled, turned around, and ran back to her bed. Antoine had his arms splayed out around her pillow. “You forgot I was here, didn’t you?” Antoine laughed and reached for her hand. Anya grabbed it. “I’m sorry, I was just so excited for us to get married.”

I can’t believe I used to not love him.

Over the last few years, Anya realized, she did love this man.

Antoine pulled her back into bed. “Just a little longer.” He smiled.

“I have to get my hair done!” Anya kissed his cheek and got up.

Antoine got up and scurried over to where Anya was standing, by her mirror, brushing her hair. “I see you.” She smiled, as Antoine crept closer. “Aw, darn.” Antoine stuck his tongue out at the mirror.

“Hey, I was thinking, maybe we could go to Inxin for our honeymoon?” Antoine asked. “Oh my gosh, Inxin is so beautiful! We have to go!!” Anya rubbed her chin. “Or maybe Augleria? But I heard it’s been a bit of a dump lately.” Anya frowned.

“What do you mean?” Antoine asked. “Well, Augleria isn’t as popular as it used to be. And apparently, there’s been a few people that went missing there…” Anya shuddered. “Our honeymoon has to be perfect. So, I don’t even want to take the risk.” The princess narrowed her eyes as her hairbrush caught on a knot it her hair. She pulled through it, and continued speaking. “Edinlase is also nice.” She added.

“I was born in Edinlase though… I want to go somewhere… new.” Antoine smiled. “Well, Inxin isn’t very new, is it? I went there a few times when I was younger.” She smiled.