there was no going back now. I had spent the last two days with Beth, learning all I could about the family a

ng it with both arms and smiling warmly. Despite the clashing patterns and hairstyle, she pulled it off. "Ms. Jones, this is Jasmine," Beth said, smiling. "She's a talented stylist who will help you get ready. I'll leave you two to get started." Beth turned to leave, and as the d

leasure,"

ht for a moment, trying to come up with an answer. I didn't want to look too formal or too casual, I wanted to strike the r

t," she said, smiling. "Let'

into a low bun, with a few tendrils framing my face. My makeup was applied with careful precision. The black sheath dress

al parts fierce and fragile, with eyes that sparkled like diamonds in the dark. I didn't feel like myself,

t." I fin

s, and the simple bun looks so elegant. You look like a movie star!" I couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm. She had a way of making me feel like

. Jones, it's tim

ou go, we

ll box, which I ope

the light, a glittering jewel nestled in a delicate gold setting. It felt light as a feather as I placed it on

bout my

a stroll, she'

take care of h

d hugged her, thanking

s I walked into the living room. I saw him, Carlton Williams, my husband-to-be seated on the couch, his eyes focused on

re polished to a mirror finish, and his hair was neatly styled in a way that exuded confidence and authority. I couldn't help but admire his style, even though I

nding up and walking towards me. I could only nod, unable to find the words to respond. He offered me his arm,

he car was a luxurious limousine, but the silence inside made it feel more like a prison. I tried to distract myself by looking

walking around to open my door for me. I stepped out, feeling a little bit like a princess in a fairy tale. As we walked towards the front door, I noticed a small army of staff members waiting for us

ous, with marble floors and gilded details. Chandeliers hung from the ceiling, and there was a grand staircase leading to the second floor. The room was filled wi

lton led me through the f

with bookshelves, and there were floor-to-ceiling windows that looked out over the gr

down my spine. It's just for show, Sam. I let out a smile. In the center of the room, there was a large table set for

isdom, but still spry enough to walk downstairs on his own, probably in his sixties - making his way down to g

mer of warmth in Carlton's eyes. "Been a while, Father," he said, his voice a little softer than usual. I felt like a ghost, invisible and insignificant. But then Carlton turned to m

day." He chuckled, "Oh, I think you might be giving me too much credit." I breathed a silent sigh of relief - close call! I wasn't sure what to expect from George, Beth hadn't given me much to go on. Was he a man waiting for me to slip up, or one who could see right thro

her red lipstick matched her heels. Her light green eyes sparkled as she took in the room. "Look who's here," she announced, raising her hands dramatically. I glanced at Ca