Chapter 7

However, Orson never showed up.

Two hours later, Maude's phone rang.

"Honey, the company just sent me on a sudden five-day business trip to Aerisport. I won't be able to go with you."

By chance, the wedding photos they'd scheduled were also supposed to be taken there.

"Unless… I can ask someone else to go in my place. I'm willing to take full responsibility for whatever happens."

Orson's voice was heavy with regret. "Honey, I know you've been dreaming about visiting Aerisport for so long. I don't want to be the one to let you down."

Maude paused for a moment before replying, "Work comes first. The wedding photos can always be rescheduled."

"Alright, honey. I'll book the flights. Right after the wedding, we'll go to Aerisport."

After hanging up, Maude sent a message to one of Orson's coworkers.

Not long after, she got a response.

As it turned out, Orson had indeed been sent on a last-minute business trip.

Maude flipped her calendar to the next page and unfolded the sheet of paper tucked behind it.

She had stayed up for two sleepless nights, filling both pages with detailed plans.

Half was devoted to their wedding photos, and the other half to exploring the city she had always dreamed of with Orson.

Though the wedding shoot was canceled, Maude was determined to visit Aerisport before leaving the country.

After tucking the calendar into her suitcase, she took one last look around the room to make sure nothing of hers was left behind.

Without turning back, she lifted her luggage and stepped out the door.

Three days remained until the wedding.

Maude followed her itinerary, exploring every corner of Aerisport.

Meanwhile, Orson sent her message after message.

"I asked Immy to stay at her friend's place. I didn't want her to make you uncomfortable."

"I've arrived at Aerisport. It's every bit as incredible as you imagined. After the wedding, I'll bring you here for a few extra days."

"The cherry blossoms are beautiful. I really wish you were here to see them with me."

There was no need for his wish. Maude had already seen them.

Maude closed the photo of the cherry blossoms Orson had sent and raised her gaze.

That very spot was on her itinerary.

At that moment, Orson stood in the center of the cherry blossom grove. He put his phone down and stretched his arms wide.

Clad in a wedding gown, Imogen ran into his embrace.

Their eyes met, brimming with longing. Together, they seemed like the perfect match.

With a gentle smile, Orson pulled Imogen closer. "Are you happy now? Have I ever refused you anything? You're the one I love. Don't you know that better than anyone?"

Maude's footsteps froze. A cold wind swept past her, its chill sinking deep into her bones.

The photographer capturing the scene was the very one Maude had painstakingly selected.

For four long hours, she trailed behind them at a distance.

She observed as they visited every spot on her itinerary, repeatedly posing for their wedding photos.

With every new location, Maude received another message from Orson.

"Honey, being here only makes me miss you more. I wish I could drop everything and come back to you."

"Only three days remain until the wedding. Time has never felt this slow."

"There are countless couples making wishes at the Heartstone of Amoria. When we visit, we have to leave our names too."

"Maude, let's be by each other's side forever."

Before she realized it, the sky had darkened.

As the tourists slowly dispersed, Maude made her way to the Heartstone of Amoria.

At the very top, two names were carved side by side—Orson and Imogen.

His flattering words turned out to be nothing but a bitter lie.

Maude chuckled quietly, tears sliding down her cheeks.

Her phone kept buzzing nonstop with incoming messages.

They were from Imogen, sharing photos from her wedding shoot with Orson.

"If there's something I want, he'll make sure I get it, no questions asked."

"Thanks to you, the photos turned out absolutely breathtaking."