Elizabeth Walker watched Jane continue to brush her hair and powder her face. The time for the ball to start grew closer and closer.

“My fiancé loves me very much," Jane said. "He's a good man. I think I shall be happy with him.”

“That’s good," Elizabeth said. "Do you love him?” 

Jane smiled. “Love is a silly thing. No, I do not love him. I've never loved any man. But he is rich and comes from a good family." 

Elizabeth fell silent, waiting for Jane to finish getting ready. 

“Guests should be arriving any time now,” Jane said. Both girls peeked outside.

The sun was just about gone. Its last rays colored the clouds in a shining orange. A horse and buggy drove up the gravel path.  

“They're here!" Jane squealed. "Come. Let us put on our dresses!” She grabbed Elizabeth's arm, practically dragging her to the gowns. Elizabeth's dress fit perfectly. 

“Jane, this is wonderful.”

“Good! Now, how do I look?” Jane asked. Elizabeth turned and looked at her. Jane wore a deep blue gown with yards of lace. It hung off of her shoulders and contrasted against her pale skin. A string of diamonds sparkled in the light around her throat.

“You look gorgeous, Jane.” Elizabeth meant it, too. Jane's dark hair rippled down her shoulders. The diamonds glistened. 

Suddenly, there was a firm knock at the door as a voice asked, “Jane? Elizabeth? May I come in?”

Elizabeth’s heart jumped as Kaden stepped into the room. He wore a black tuxedo with gold accents, and his hair was slicked back. She’d never seen anyone so handsome. Even in his stiff suit, a smile played on his lips and danced in his eyes.

“You ladies look stunning,” he said.

“Thank you, Kade. Is Lucas here?” Jane asked.

He nodded. “Just showed up.”

“Then, I will see both of you downstairs,” Jane said with a curtsy.

After she left the room, Kaden turned towards Elizabeth. A blush crept up her cheeks and warmed her face. Kaden took her gloved hands in his.

"Elizabeth, you look stunning. You clean up beautifully.”

“Thanks, Kade. I don’t quite feel like myself, though.”

“May I give you something?” he asked.

“Kade, you’ve given me so much already. I couldn’t.”

“I already bought it.”

Elizabeth smiled. “Alright, but no more.”

She gasped as Kaden pulled out a dazzling diamond necklace.

“Kade, I can’t wear that.” Elizabeth sank into the chair at the vanity. A sob left her lips.

“Liz! What’s wrong? Don’t you like them?” Kaden asked.

“You’ve been so good to me.” A tear slipped down her cheek.

He knelt by her side. “Please don’t cry. I’m sorry about the necklace.”

She grabbed his hand. “Don’t be sorry. I’m sorry. I just . . . it’s just so much. I think I’m a little overwhelmed.” She gave a small smile. “Don’t worry. I’ll be okay. I’ve survived thieves, freezing, and hunger. I think I can manage a little party.”

Kaden smiled and lifted the necklace again. Elizabeth held her breath as he strung it around her neck. The diamonds sparkled on her skin like a million fireflies. 

“Kade, I don’t know what to say.”

“Are you ready to walk down?”

Elizabeth took a deep breath. “Yes.” 

He took her arm and led her out of the room.