When she finally realized

“Stop!” 

     Serena thought her voice was loud and clear, slicing through the air as Henley paused, his lips mere inches from hers. To her dismay, the sound barely escaped her lips, it was just a frantic echo reverberating in her mind. What perplexed her the most was that he hadn’t pressed his lips on hers as expected. Instead, he turned his head, his gaze drifting to the priest who stood to the side, unperturbed, his expression a neutral blend of seriousness and solemnity.

     With a careful look at her face, he inclined closer, put his right hand across her neck to pull her close. Serena thought after seeing how trouble she was, he would stop but he didn't. He gently placed his lips on her lips and kissed her passionately. Then after a few seconds he pulled backward. 

     “It’s just a kiss, Sweetheart.” Henley smiled at her, his voice a striking combination of affection and an unusual solemnity.

     Serena felt like ten years had been removed from her lifespan after the kiss. It might have seemed like a kiss to the guests but when he kissed her, she felt like he was devouring her. “That wasn't…nevermind.” She choked back the word.

      Henley Macdonald was not just a feast for the eyes; he possessed an ethereal beauty that seemed almost otherworldly. His voice flowed like a gentle melody, rich with a deep timbre that seemed to capture attention effortlessly. His physique was an embodiment of masculinity—broad shoulders, a sculpted chest, and limbs that exuded strength. He had a flawless face, the skin shimmering like polished gemstone under the light. Those striking sapphire blue eyes shone bright, reminiscent of stars against a midnight sky. His aquiline nose and high cheekbones gave him an air of nobility, and the conspicuous mole just beneath his lip added a unique charm to his striking appearance. 

     “Skip to the end, priest. I can't wait to take my wife home.” He commanded solemnly, making her heart palpitate.

Following Henley’s words, the priest cleared his throat, visibly flustered, and promptly moved on to the last part of the ritual. Serena felt a wave of relief wash over her, she was grateful he hadn’t touched her after the kiss. Yet, a pang of anxiety settled in her stomach. What might be going on in Henley’s mind? Did he suspect that she was an impostor? Fortunately, Henley remained unaware. Moments earlier, he had noticed the slight tremor in her hands, the way her body had tensed at the priest’s call for a kiss. He had misinterpreted her unease, attributing it to shyness in front of the gathered guests rather than the truth of her deception.

     After signing the marriage certificate, they left the church and made their way to one of the lavish hotels owned by the Macdonald family. The air was thick with unfamiliarity as they entered a suite filled with faces she didn’t recognize—stylists and beauticians bustling around, preparing her for the festivities ahead. She stood there dressed in a stunning sequined golden maxi dress that clung to her curves, paired with matching heels and a delicate gold purse. Before she could fully take in her reflection, a maid entered the room, carrying an elegant jewelry box.

      Approaching with a respectful demeanor, the maid lowered her gaze. “Mrs. Macdonald wants you to wear this, ma’am.” She announced, extending the box toward Serena. 

     As Serena took the jewelry box, her eyes widened at the breathtaking array it contained—diamond earrings, an exquisite necklace, shimmering bracelets, and more, each piece glistening under the light. Laura, her friend, gasped in astonishment. “These are real stones, Raquel . It’s beautiful. You’re so lucky.” She exclaimed, unable to hold back her excitement.

      Lucky? Serena internally scoffed. None of it belonged to her. It felt as if she were living someone else’s life, a mere character in a grand tale. This was all a disguise, designed to shield the truth from the world. Laura was unaware of her identity, just as most people were, except for Claire, her best friend, who was aware of Raquel's illness. 

     Moreover, rumors circulated that Raquel  had been hospitalized and was recovering, but only a few knew that her sister had been replaced at the altar.

      Serena felt an urge to refuse the extravagant gift, but Claire intervened. “You should wear it. You have to.”

     Serena understood her friend’s unspoken plea, it was a question of maintaining appearances.

     As the maids adorned her with the delicate pieces, they fit perfectly, as if they had been crafted with her in mind. Yet, her heart felt heavy. She longed for the moment when she could stop pretending to be Raquel, to have a chance to speak to her mother. A wave of frustration washed over her as she recalled the way she had confiscated her phone that morning, fearful she might slip away during the ceremony.

     “Have you heard from Dominic?” She whispered, her eyes scanning the room.

      “No, but I saw his driver a while ago. I’m pretty sure he’s here too. Everything will be all right,” Claire assured her softly.

     Just then, Henley strode into the suite, clad in a meticulously tailored black suit that fit him perfectly. The maids and beauticians bowed their heads in deference as he entered.

    “Are you done?” He asked, his tone commanding yet devoid of emotion.

    “Yes, sir.” They replied in unison.

    “Then shall we?” He offered his hand, and she hesitated momentarily, fighting the urge to avoid his gaze as she stood. When he extended his left arm, she tentatively looped her hand around his, and together they exited the room, their friends trailing behind. 

   “Why are you wearing that?” He queried, his brow furrowing as he eyed the necklace that glistened around her neck.

    An awkward silence filled the space between them before Serena finally mustered the courage to respond. Clearing her throat, she replied, “A lady brought it. She said Mrs. Macdonald wanted me to wear it.” In her mind, she imagined his grandmother. 

     Henley shrugged nonchalantly, a hint of confusion flitting across his face. He knew the bodyguards wouldn’t have let anyone uninvited into her suite. “Are you all right? You’ve been zoning out since this morning. Do you want me to cancel the party…?” His voice trailed off as he searched her eyes for answers. Serena could only pray that she could keep the truth hidden a little longer.

    “No, you don't have to. I appreciate it. It'll make your grandmother sad if you call it off.” 

    “I was hoping that you would tell me to call it off. I'm glad you're enjoying yourself.” He said while looking forward.

     After all, the extravagant party was entirely orchestrated by Henley’s grandmother. Just before they departed from the church, Henley had whispered to Serena that his grandmother had arranged a celebratory gathering for their post-wedding.  He mentioned that several of his business associates would be attending the party because of their absences at the actual wedding, and he was eager to introduce Serena to some of them. Despite his reassurances, stating that he would happily cancel the party if she felt uneasy, Serena couldn’t shake a sense of discontent. Yet, she kept her feelings at bay, remembering what Cynthia had told her. Moreover, Henley's grandmother had been nothing but kind when they had met previously, which somewhat eased Serena's anxieties.

   As they arrived at the dazzling hall, every eye turned toward the couple, a collective gaze laden with admiration. The venue was adorned with elegance, the paparazzi stood ready, their cameras clicking as they captured the moment. A woman, likely in her late fifties, approached them with an air of familiarity. 

     Her memory flickered back to their brief interaction at the church, where she had seen this woman engaged in conversation with Henley's grandmother. Though she couldn't quite grasp how this woman was connected to Henley or his grandmother, she sensed a familial bond. She was taken aback, however, that none of the guests had yet introduced her to Henley’s mother. The only mention she had heard was a fleeting comment about his late father, leaving her puzzled about Henley's maternal lineage.

     “Mrs. MacDonald? Do you have a moment?” an elderly gentleman inquired politely from just behind them.

     “I’m sorry, Mr. Hebron. Just a moment, I need to take a photo with the bride.” She replied. 

    “All right, I’ll be waiting by the table.” He said, retreating with a courteous nod.

     Serena's breath caught in her throat when the woman was addressed as ‘Mrs. MacDonald.’ Suddenly, it dawned on her that this must be Henley’s mother, though they shared no resemblance with one another. The woman gracefully made her way to the red carpet and posed for several photos alongside Serena. Just then, Henley was whisked away by one of his business partners, leaving Serena alone with the woman. 

     “I see you admire the jewelry.” The woman remarked, her smile genuine and warm. “I thought they might look splendid on you, so I chose them from my store.”

    Serena's mind raced. She had naively assumed it was Henley’s grandmother who had given her the jewelry, but now she realized she needed to feign familiarity. “Forgive me, I truly appreciate your thoughtful gift. I thought it was from Grandma, and I had no idea it was you.” She responded, managing a smile.

      “It's nothing for me to sulk over,” Sarah reassured her. “And since Carrie failed to come, it seems she has already distanced herself from Henley’s life. It must be quite disappointing not to receive anything from your mother-in-law. I chose the most beautiful gift for you as your stepmother-in-law, and I genuinely hope you like it.”

    Henley had only spoken about his mom once, that was three days ago when they met up, the first time she disguised as Raquel. Apparently, the woman beside her was Henley’s stepmother. The realization hit her, Henley’s mother hadn’t been present at her son’s wedding. She found herself pondering the reasons behind this absence, especially now that she understood there were likely many more of his relatives yet to be introduced to her. 

   “I really do love it. Thank you…” 

     “Call me 'mother' I won’t mind at all.” Sarah replied. As she placed a gentle peck on Serena's cheek, she drifted away, leaving Serena dazed.

      Soon she scanned the crowded hall, her gaze locked onto Henley as he approached her with purpose. “Come with me, there’s someone I want you to meet.” He said, leading her toward a VIP table. As a chivalrous man, he drew out a chair for her before settling into his own.

      “I wish you all the happiness in your marriage. Mr. MacDonald, your wife is truly a goddess. I regret not being able to attend the wedding.”  A woman, likely in her mid-seventies, said with a warm smile.

       “I-I appreciate it. I’m not upset.” She stammered. 

     Henley picked up on her discomfort, perhaps realizing it might be because of the presence of his business partners. Beneath the table, he reached out with his left hand, intertwining his fingers with her right hand resting on her thigh. Serena's breath hitched as she felt the tenderness of his squeeze, their eyes met, and she saw the concern in his gaze.

    “It’s all right. I’m here with you,” He said softly. 

    The exquisite party continued to unfold until it neared ten o’clock that evening. As their cars pulled up outside, Henley gently informed Serena that it was time to leave. As they stood on the steps, Serena hesitated before requesting a moment alone with her stepdad. 

    She looked around still he was nowhere to be found. Eventually she gave up and went to the frontcourt.

     ‘Is that true? I'll check them now. I hope this isn't one of your tricks.’ His voice conveyed a threat before he abruptly ended the call.

     Once the conversation was over, his piercing gaze softened as he looked at her. “That’s strange…” 

    “I need to tell you something.” She cut in, determined to reveal the truth. 

    “Hold on. There’s something odd,” he observed, leaning in closer. Each tilt of his head made Serena step back, but Henley pulled her firmly against him. Their bodies connected, and she was taken aback by his strength. With wide eyes, she searched his face, trying to break free but finding him immovable. “Your eyes are really sparkling. Are you wearing contact lenses?”

     She shook her head, momentarily speech

     She couldn’t find her voice but answered with a shake of her head. “Oh no,” Even though her heart was on the verge of jumping to her throat, she realized that if it was her eyes, she had Raquel’s eyes, therefore she didn’t need to fear. "Sweetheart, they are gorgeous." He brought his face closer this time, just before letting her go, and kissed her on the lips after looking down at them. He smirked and ignored the frown on her face. “I love you.” After he let go of her, she was able to straighten her posture. Stepping forward, the chauffeur held the door open for them. To hop, Henley motioned to her.

     As her chest rumbled, she stared at him in silence, utterly confused and disoriented. "I-I." She stumbled. 

    “When we get home, we will discuss. I hope you like surprises, Serena.” He whispered to her ear as his eyes darkened. 

 Hearing her name slipped from his mouth, her body became cold. “Serena?” She pronounced.

     His eyes darkened with eagerness or more accurately, hideous, for something she hadn’t yet discovered, and it caused her great anxiety.