Chapter 9

As it got close to nine in the evening, I quickly took a shower. I wanted to make sure I had enough time to pick out a nice dress for the evening service. I didn't want to look messy when Astrid came over.

I have many fancy dresses, but I chose a knee-length one with long sleeves. It fit me snugly and made me feel great! I wore black high-heeled shoes and left my long hair down. Before leaving my room, I put on a bit of makeup - red lipstick and blush on my cheeks. I also curled my eyelashes because I remembered Ryder liked them that way.

When I came downstairs, everyone noticed me, just like I thought they would. Philip said I looked pretty, and Ryder didn't say much, but I could tell he was impressed.

Philip joked that Ryder would have a tough time with two beautiful wives, meaning Astrid and me. Ryder agreed, but he didn't say much else. Philip then whispered to Ryder, asking him to always take care of me and not forget about me when he got another wife.