15. An Uncle's Wisdom

~ KATALEYA ~

“No tears,” Raihana warns me.

I nod as I turn and hug her tightly, trying to control my emotions.

“Thank you, Ri.”

“You don’t need to thank me,” she whispers, hugging me back before she moves back. “Now don’t go ruining my effort. Enrique is the only exception to ruin my hard work. Skyla snickers at that.

Raihana smiles, brushing a curly that frames my face into place. “You know, on your father’s engagement to Jasmin, I did your Mama’s makeup.”

“You did?” Skyla asks in surprise.

Raihana nods and I smile. “I know, she’s told me, and Aunt Raven chose her black dress.”

Raihana nods again. “Yeah. Look… no matter what happens tonight. I need you to keep your head high and remember that you are a queen, a Rossi, but more than that, you are a strong woman.”

“Thank you,” I say.

“Well, I better go get ready, I won’t be long, our dates should be here soon.” Her smile fades and I want to ask if everything is ok, but she leaves before I can.

“I better go get my dress on too. You reall