Arlana and Kellam walked into the tailor's cabin just as Avalynn stepped out from behind the curtain. She was wearing the ball gown she had picked out for the ceremony. It was emerald green with a ruche top and a sweet heart neckline. A stream of diamonds wrapped around her waist in an ivy motif. The material was pure silk and expanded out from the waist. "Avalynn you look stunning!" Arlana said in an awe filled voice. Usually Avalynn’s hazel eyes appeared more brown than green but today they matched the emerald color of her gown. The contrast of her dark auburn hair to the color of the gown was mesmerizing. Arlana realized Kellam hadn't said a word since they arrived. She nudged him with her elbow thinking that he should also say something nice. As she turned to look at him she noticed that his jaw was dropped open and he was staring at Avalynn. She looked at Avalynn again and realized that her sister's cheeks were flamed red and that she was staring back at Kellam with a smile on her face.
In that moment Arlana felt like she should give them privacy and walk outside. Just as she turned to leave Jonah, the tailor, walked into the room. "Arlana we have been waiting for you." he said with a smile.
Avalynn then noticed Arlana and ran to give her a hug. "You made it! I am so glad you are here! Isn't this exciting?" Avalynn gushed. Arlana felt bad about not wanting to come and could only think to say "I'm sorry I’m late."
"Kellam thank you for bringing Arlana here." Avalynn said demurely.
"Anything for you my lady. By the way you look breathtaking." Kellam responded. "Thank you Kellam." Avalynn said as she gave him a hug. Before he let her go he kissed her cheek. Avalynn's eyes sparkled as they met Kellam's. They stood there staring at each other until Jonah cleared his throat.
"Kellam, thank you for finding Arlana. Unless you want to wear a gown to the ball you are free to leave," Jonah said as he pushed him out the door.
Avalynn grabbed Arlana's hand and pulled her into the dressing area. "Arlana I have two wonderful things to share with you. I convinced Marika to let me pick your gown! What do you think?" Avalynn pulled out a full skirted dark wine colored ball gown. The top had a sweet heart neckline that was highlighted with beading. It had a pickup skirt adorned with jewel appliqué. Arlana's jaw dropped. She never imagined having such a beautiful gown. She was speechless. "I knew you would love it!" Avalynn said triumphantly. “I didn't think you'd be speechless but I can't wait to see it on you!"
As Arlana got dressed Avalynn continued with her news, "Arlana you will never believe what has happened!"
"What is it?" Arlana replied.
"Kellam has asked to escort me to the celebration!"
"Oh Avalynn, I am so happy for you!" Arlana exclaimed as she hugged her sister.
"Avalynn, Marika has chosen some earrings for you to wear with your gown. Let's go try them on to see how they look. Then we need to decide what shoes you will wear. Will you be dancing do you think?" Jonah said as he pulled Avalynn into the next room.
Arlana turned and stared at her reflection. She had never felt as beautiful as she did now. She was happy that her sister would be with Kellam on the big night. As she changed back into her clothes her thoughts drifted to Cole and she wondered if he would be escorting anyone. She had never seen him show a particular interest in any lady at the camp. She didn't know why she kept thinking about him today. She couldn't imagine anyone wanting to ask her to the ball. She couldn't even imagine who she would want to go with either. She sighed and reminded herself that she was going to celebrate Kellam's ceremony and Avalynn's birthday. Besides, the food would be good. She slowly leaned back against the window. As she turned to look outside she saw Cole standing in the street. His eyes locked on hers.