Brooke didn't realize the sort of her effect she was having on those around her. Oh, she knew she was emanating something, but it was a far more powerful thing than she realized.

"No, not yet," Brooke said. "But we both agreed that we don't want a long, drawn out engagement." She reached into the bag and pulled out another handful of seed for the ducks. "Five months," she said. "It's a very short courtship, I know. Not even a full half year. But..." she trailed off, deep in thought for a moment. "I do love him. And he loves me. He's a great prospect who could offer me so much in the future." Power. Riches. Eternal beauty. Love. She reached out and took one of Stephanie's hands in her own. "Please say you'll be my matron of honor?"