"Do you, David Park, choose Avery Downs as your beloved partner in life, your lifelong companion and confidant, pledging to uphold and honor her in all facets of existence, through joyous times and challenging trials? Will you hold her dear, treating her with utmost reverence, nurturing her aspirations and goals, while fostering her personal development and offering unwavering support along every step of the shared journey?" The priest's voice reverberated throughout the enchanting wedding venue, where everyone in attendance eagerly anticipated David's response.
David gazed intently into Avery's eyes. He drew a deep breath, his vow exiting his lips."I, David Park, wholeheartedly and sincerely choose Avery Downs to be my lifelong companion, my dearest friend, and my equal in every facet of life. As we embark on this journey together, I commit to nurturing and cherishing her with an abundance of love and profound admiration.Respect will be the cornerstone of our relationship, as I hold her opinions, dreams, and aspirations in high regard, always considering her as an equal partner in any decision we undertake. Without falter, I pledge to be her unwavering pillar of support, continuously urging her to pursue her aspirations and recognizing her true potential, even in moments of adversity.In this journey of life, I promise to stand by her side, not only during the joyous moments but also during the challenging times. Together, we will celebrate every victory, big and small, and find solace and strength in one another during the darkest hours. I will be her constant rock, offering love, compassion, and understanding, knowing that her happiness is intricately intertwined with my own.Above all, I pledge to love her unconditionally, embracing her flaws and imperfections as the unique facets that make her who she is. I promise to wake up every day committing to this love, this partnership, and this adventure we have embarked upon, for as long as we both shall live."As David concluded his vow, the air seemed to hold its breath, enveloped in the profundity of his words. Avery looked at him, shocked - or overwhelmed - by the depth of his words. She found herself wondering what had inspired such a heartfelt declaration."What's with him? A simple 'I do' would have been better. What's with the long speech? It's an arranged marriage, dude!" She thought to herself.She glanced around once more, her eyes flitting across the guests seated on either side of the pristine white aisle runner. Finally, her gaze settled on her mother."It's because of you that I'm here, about to marry a man I've only met twice," her eyes silently conveyed to her mother.How did she end up here?Well, it all started two weeks ago.***Two weeks ago***Avery was all cuddled up in bed with Tiffany as they had just finished engaging in a passionate makeout session. Their bodies were sweaty as they were tightly wrapped together under the blanket."I missed you," Avery whispered softly against Tiffany's skin."Going a whole month without seeing you wasn't easy..." Tiffany said."I am glad you are back," Avery kissed Tiffany."Avery, I have something to say," Tiffany said as Avery continued to kiss her neck."It's important. Please just hold on," Tiffany said, sitting up. Avery finally relented."Okay, go ahead," Avery finally gave Tiffany the attention she desired."Okay, so... the trip wasn't quite successful... and I don't usually do things like this... and it's also quite embarrassing..." Tiffany began."Okay?" Avery prompted."I need a favor from you, babe," Tiffany said."A favor? Let's hear it then," Avery said, leaning in closer to Tiffany.Tiffany hesitated for a moment before finally gathering the courage to speak. "Um... could you please lend me some money? The bills are starting to suffocate me. I need to invest more in my business, and my three younger siblings have educational expenses that need to be taken care of. On top of that, my mom needs to seek treatment abroad. I know it's uncomfortable to ask the person I love for money, and I don't want it to strain our relationship, but I really need your help, Avery..." Tiffany trailed off as Avery surprised her with a kiss. "I'm a little disappointed, Tiffs," Avery admitted softly.Tiffany's heart sank, fearing she had pushed Avery away. "I'm sorry, Avery. It's okay if you don't want to lend me the money. It won't change how I feel about you," Tiffany quickly responded, brushing away her tears.Avery took Tiffany's hands in hers. "No, that's not what I meant. I'm disappointed that you asked
"Why are you late?" Mrs. Downs asked, her tone edged with irritation as Avery entered the dining room.Avery shrugged indifferently, replying, "I made it here eventually, didn't I? Isn't that what matters?""Good evening, Daddy," Avery greeted her father, intentionally ignoring the rest of her family, including her mother.Her father beamed happily at her and asked, "How are you, my girl?"Avery sighed."I was fine, but being here now doesn't make me feel that way anymore," she admitted.Her father's smile faltered slightly."My poor baby. Have a seat. You can eat and leave soon, alright?" he offered, trying to provide comfort. Mrs. Downs couldn't help but scoff at the "father-daughter" display of affection.Unable to resist the urge to provoke her, Avery's younger brother, Robert, lashed out at her. "Upon being late, you still couldn't even choose a proper outfit. What the heck are you wearing?" he jeered.Avery was wearing a black cargo pant, white t-shirt, and black flats. "Unc
Avery stood up, her arms already halfway extended in anticipation of a hug. But Tiffany raised a hand, refusing the embrace."Hey, we're in public. We can't hug here," Tiffany said.Avery's smile faltered slightly, her disappointment flickering across her face. "But girls hug in public all the time," she replied, attempting to conceal her hurt."I know I'm not just any girl to you, and I know it isn't going to be a regular hug. Let's save it for when we're alone, okay?" Tiffany suggested, motioning towards the empty seat across from Avery. With a slightly deflated sigh, Avery settled into the seat opposite Tiffany and watched as Tiffany ordered a drink."So, how was your day? How did you spend it?" Tiffany took a moment to consider before replying, "Oh, I was at home all day. Although, I did visit my mom at the hospital. How about you?"A wave of sadness enveloped Avery upon hearing Tiffany's response. It was as if her heart had been pierced and shattered into a million fragments.
Avery sat there, crying her heart out and struggling to breathe from the continuous sobs. Many eyes were on her, but she didn't care. She had never felt this betrayed in her entire life, not even the day her mom fired her from the company and put her younger brother, Robert, in her place.A waiter tapped her and handed her a tissue. "Ma'am, I'm sorry, but the other customers are complaining," the waiter said politely. Avery understood the message. "I'm sorry," she sobbed before grabbing her phone and leaving the coffee shop.She continued walking down the street, tears streaming down her face, when a car horned at her from the side. "I'm not in your way!" she yelled, drawing attention from the onlookers.The car parked, and a man emerged from the driver's seat. He wore a crisp, tailored navy blue suit with a white dress shirt underneath. His tie and pocket square perfectly matched in a deep burgundy shade. The man had neatly groomed dark brown hair and a chiseled jawline. Despite
They arrived at the hotel, and Avery bid Simon goodbye, expressing her gratitude for his help. Approaching the reception desk, she politely inquired about the most affordable room available. The receptionist provided her with a list of options, to which Avery nodded and reached for her card to complete the payment. However, her heart sank when the transaction was declined.Avery couldn't believe it. "Insufficient funds? That can't be right!" She exclaimed, quickly grabbing her phone to check her bank account balance. To her shock, she discovered that she didn't have even a single dollar left in her account—the only account she possessed. Confusion washed over her as she noticed that almost three million dollars had been transferred to an unfamiliar account.Her mind raced. Had her bank account been hacked? She feverishly searched her pockets for any spare change, but all she found was less than twenty dollars. Frustration and disappointment consumed her as she reluctantly made her
It was Saturday evening, and Avery and her mom sat anxiously around the table, eagerly awaiting the arrival of their guests.Tonight, they were meeting with him. Despite her initial reluctance, Avery had allowed herself to be transformed into a vision of elegance and sophistication. Her dress, a knee-length, figure-hugging black ensemble, boasted delicate lace detailing that accentuated her slim figure. The capped sleeves exuded a touch of femininity, while the subtle V-neckline revealed just enough skin to leave an alluring impression.Her hair, meticulously curled, cascaded in soft waves around her face, framing her features with elegance. A few loose strands danced playfully, adding a touch of whimsy to her perfectly coiffed appearance. The flawless makeup enhanced her sparkling hazel eyes with a subtle smokey application, while a rosy blush effortlessly accentuated her high cheekbones.Completing her attire were a pair of black stiletto heels, adorned with a delicate strap, that
***Present day***Avery's wedding dress was a stunning masterpiece that effortlessly accentuated her svelte figure while tastefully incorporating her mom's desire for a V-neckline. The deep V-neck gracefully began just above her chest and cascaded down to her abdomen, revealing a hint of her cleavage. However, despite the dress's beauty, Avery couldn't help but feel a twinge of discomfort. The amount of exposed skin unsettled her, but she felt powerless to defy her mom's wishes."It's just for two hours," Avery contemplated, her thoughts wrestling with her inner conflict. She had protested the idea of a wedding reception, feeling unenthusiastic about the marriage itself. Why should they celebrate with a reception when her closest friends weren't even present? In truth, the only familiar faces were her family and Simon, leaving her feeling isolated.Avery's unease grew stronger after David said his vow. The room erupted with applause, but Avery's gaze wandered, her discomfort evid
"The ladies call me the Adonis of the town," David boasted with a self-satisfied grin. "With my perfectly chiseled jawline, mesmerizing hazel eyes, and impeccable sense of style, it's no wonder I am the center of attention wherever I go."Avery bit her lip, struggling to hold back a burst of laughter. "You really think that highly of yourself, don't you?" she replied.David's smirk only widened."Why, of course! I've been called a heartthrob, a dreamboat, and even a vision in flesh and bones. But my personal favorite? The epitome of male perfection. And well, can you blame them? I mean, just take a look at this face," he said, dramatically gesturing towards his own reflection in the car window. "It takes a lot of effort to look this good, you know. Hours at the gym, meticulous grooming routines, and of course, a natural charm that only I possess.""Wow, such dedication," she said mockingly, pretending to be mesmerized."Well, Valerie, it's all about priorities. When you're blessed