In Which Celina Accepts the Phrase of Intent

January 17, 1200

"Well... I suppose this is it." Celina grimaced at the gold-on-teal Sadiel siren in front of her. There was a definite strangeness in talking to a tapestry, but in lieu of Ovrean himself, his family crest would have to suffice. "Our youngest baby, about to be married."

And how it seemed too soon! Had it really been a year and half ago now that Severin had called on her to express interest in courting Lileina? For that matter, had it really been twenty-one years since Arydath had first placed that beautiful baby girl in her arms?

"I just wish you were here to see it. I know you'll be watching fondly, but you understand that it's not the same for those of us down here. Lileina especially; I won't stand for this not to be one of the happiest days of her life, but I know she'll have a few thoughts for you. I just hope she feels your presence rather than your absence."

A young bride, she remembered only too well, was an easy target for nervousness. Lileina especially would not be immune, not when Celina had gone to her room to bid her goodnight only to find her practicing her 'I do's. Severin didn't begrudge her stutter--by the love-struck glaze in his eye whenever he looked Lileina's way, Celina doubted he even noticed it any more--but it was natural to fear the judgment of an audience.

But, if her father was watching over her--and he was not the sort of man who wouldn't--then surely he could lend her some of his calm.

"I thought Tarien would have been the first choice, but she asked me to walk her down the aisle instead. I'm sure you'll be on her other arm in spirit, darling."

In spirit, in ghost, in memory. Celina had never been quite sure of the physical details of such phrasing, but it didn't matter much. It was a phrase of intent rather than literal denotation.

Wherever Ovrean was, he'd left at least a part of himself in the hearts of those who'd loved him.

"And I think it's safe to say that it's only a matter of time before you have another grandson bearing your name."

NEXT CHAPTER: