16 Yes to the Dress (2/2)

Recognizing the resolution in Ms. Cades' eyes, Ivanna stepped back and though reluctant, nodded in approval.

”Now Kurtis, how are things going along with your own suit?”

”Measurements were taken last week. Should be ready no later than the end of this week,” he replied.

Ms. Ivanna shook her head before giving orders to the staff to fetch a tux in the inventory room for the gentleman.

”Hurry and get changed. Wait for me in the studio,” the designer said as she went on the phone.

As soon as the lady was out of sight, Kurtis was beckoned to follow one dresser to the west wing and Lyra was led out to the east wing where the studio was. Separated from him, she could finally breathe a little easier, and though she wasn't yet allowed to change out of the gown, she did get to sit on a bench which was relief to her strained feet.

Ten minutes later, a secret door creaked open from the side and Kurtis stepped out. He seemed a little surprised too when he saw Lyra sitting on the bench in the spacious studio room.

Kurtis didn't budge from the doorway until the staff dragged him over to the bench and urged him to sit down and make himself comfortable. When he did, the staff exited the room to fetch a few more things, leaving the bride and groom together.

”What are we doing here?” Lyra turned to the guy who usually knew what was going on. ”Why did you change?”

”Ivanna wanted a picture together with me. It was one of the conditions for designing your dress,” he explained while taking a look around the professional set, unable to sit still.

Lyra nodded. ”Okay…so why am I here?”

”That's what I'm dying to know,” the man added sarcastically before getting up and walking the room.

It was confirmed that there was absolutely no confusion between them. Mr. Wellington knew it was the other Ms. Cades the minute he stepped into the fitting room. It couldn't be more obvious to him now that he personally knew both of them so well.

A minute later, three staff members entered the room from the hidden door carrying a few black bags.

”Ms. Ivanna is still on the line, but she told us to help you two get ready for the photoshoot first.”

”What photoshoot?” Lyra asked.

”Ms. Cades, your bridal photoshoot with the groom,” she said to the couple sitting on the bench while already unpacking the makeup bag.

[No way is this happening…]