Lumina stood quietly in front of the mirror, dressed in a soft ivory gown that brushed her ankles. Her long hair had already been brushed out by Stella, and now she was gently arranging it, weaving strands together into a loose braid.
Though Lumina could not see her reflection, she had always asked Stella to help her get ready while standing in front of a mirror.
It had always reminded her of her mother's gentle hands and calm voice whenever she helped her dress every morning before her death.
That memory was a comfort Lumina held tightly in her chest, even though her mother had been gone for many years now.
Stella was just about to tie the ribbon at the end of her braid when the chamber door creaked open without warning. Lumina gasped and stiffened.
She didn't need her sight to know who had just walked inside. Stella's hands froze on her braid.
"Stella?" Lumina whispered.
But Stella had already turned. "My Lord," she said quickly, bowing.
