Chapter 6

Aria p.o.v

I was a living example of nervousness, if anything I was seconds of passing out. The news of my marriage to Vaughn has been the talk of the town within twenty-four hours.

How it managed to get to the news channels, I have no clue. All I know is that yesterday when I woke up, the news has spread like wildfire. The only good thing was that my face, nor even a shadow portrait of me was not published.

Vaughn Slade is getting married to a woman named, Aria Julian. That was the headline for every news channel possible.

I don’t know if I’m doing the right thing, but I know I’m not only protecting my mom but also getting my revenge.

Liam has been on my back with calls and texts, claiming we needs to talk. Well, there’s nothing left for us to talk about, him and his new girlfriend has said a lot that day.

He even went as far as saying we’re still together, why would I be getting married to someone else. And that too to his uncle.

Oh now, we are still together? How come I didn’t know about? I grinning evilly.

I’m alone, my first silent and reflective moment of the day so far, and probably the last. I’ve been waiting for this tiny snippet of time in between the chaos of the wedding preparations.

I needed this moment to myself, to absorb the massive leap that I’m about to take in life. Trying to gather my thoughts.

It’s my wedding day.

Today is the day, the day I tie the knot with Vaughn Slade my sister was supposed to marry. The day I promise myself to this man for god know how long, causing I’m hoping not for ever though.

I sighed looking at my reflection in the large shiny mirror, a beautiful woman stare back at me.

The ivory gown that was meant for Sophia now cascading down my slender frame, the fitted, mermaid silhouette hugging my curves in all the right places. Accentuating my slender waist and flaring out into a dramatic train that followed behind me like a cloud.

Delicate lace and beading adorned the bodice, forming a pattern of interlocking flowers and vines that seemed to dance on my skin. The sleeves were long and flowing, with tiny buttons that ran from my wrists to my shoulders.

Around the neck, is a silver necklace glinting in the light, drawing attention to the soft creamy expanse of my skin. My hair was styled in loose, flowing waves that cascaded down back.

Sophia sure does have the best fashion taste in the house, choosing not only an expensive wedding dress, but tastefully done too. The dress was beyond perfection and it was as if it’s specifically made for me. I love the dress no doubt on that, only if I was also in love with the man I’m dressed up for.

I thought back to the day Vaughn paid an unexpected visit at our house, his cold and calculating demeanor sending shivers down my spine. That was the only time I had set my eyes on him, and today is our wedding.

We should have had some sort of personal conversation, right? Was this what Sophia had to deal with?

This is so exhausting and it’s just the beginning, how am I going to survive.

Vaughn seem like a man made of ice, his emotions locked away behind a mask of indifference. I had seen glimpses of his calculating nature, the way he seemed to weigh every option and manipulate those around him to get what he wanted.

The door cracked open, tearing me from increasing thoughts. I saw my mom through the mirror as she entered the room with a beaming smile that dropped the instant she saw me standing by the mirror.

She patted my shoulder in a soothing way, while I gave a small convincing smile.

“Come let’s sit.” She gently took me towards the bed and made me sit while she sat beside me, holding both my hand in hers and caressing them softly.

I gave her a questioning stare, I knew this was the moment the bride and her mom would have the mother and daughter talk. I was hoping we could skip that, I would rather not get all emotional, and seeing mom emotional would definitely make me emotional too.

“I don’t know what your life would be like after today, I won’t be able to protect you anymore. It’s your husband’s responsibility after marriage.” Mom sighed softly.

“I don’t understand why you agree to this marriage, we could face the consequences heads on.” She whispered not meaning for me to hear.

But I couldn’t do that to our family, Sophia has already put us in a tight spot and I don’t blame her for that. It was her life and she has every right to make decisions for it, but I don’t have enough courage like her to leave our family behind.

“If you ever felt pressured and you couldn’t continue the marriage at any point, file for a divorce. I will support on any decision you make, we will fight it together.” She said desperately as if trying to change my mind about the marriage.

But Sophia had already pulled off a stunt, if I’m to do anything right now. I’m convinced that we would suffer a great deal.

“I am sure of this, mom. I would be fine, you don’t have to worry about.” I tried to assure her, while I needed the assurance.

“I trust you to be fine.” She sighed, I sighed too. “But remember what I told you, I will support your decision, okay?” I nod just to put her mind at rest.

The door burst open, my mother-in-law came in with the makeup artist. She paused and stared at us with wide grin on her face.

“Having the mother and daughter moment?” Mrs. Slade teased with an adoring look on.

I have heard from Sophia, when she was preparing for the wedding. That Vaughn’s mother is the complete opposite of her son, and also not those bossy and controlling mother in law. She was a sweet woman, with a lot of love to give out.

I thought she would be angry and discern me when she heard Sophia had run away. I mean anyone would be mad at that family, but she was still welcoming.

“Yes.” Mom laughed, wiping the unshed tears from her eyes, my heart breaking at the sight.

The beautician did a once-over touch up on my face, before I was led outside of the hotel. This resort is owned by Vaughn, it’s the biggest and most expensive resort in the state.

It’s a five star resort, only for the elite of the city of new York.

That is where our wedding will be held, Azura Bay Resort.

It’s time.

Time to get tied to this man, I was nervous. I took a deep breath to calm my nerves, but was unsuccessful.

My gaze went to my dad, who so proudly stood beside me in a well tailored suit. It must be freaking expensive. He returned my stare with a toothy smile, and a proud look.

I look away, right now, I don’t want to add to my stress. I’ve had enough to worry about, plus I was distracted as the song started, that’s my clue to go in.

I linked my hand in dad’s arms, and we proceeded to the make shift alter. It’s an outdoor wedding, nestled within the lush garden of Azure Bay.

A beautiful manicured lawn surrounded with tropical flowers that seem to dance in the gentle breeze. The priest stood at the altar, adorned with delicate white drapes that billowed in the wind. And intricate floral arrangements that added a touch of elegance to the already breathtaking setting.

The aisle was lined with comfortable, white cushioned chairs, each adorned with a delicate floral arrangement.

My breath came short and fast as my eyes landed on the man I’m getting married to. For the second time, and just like the first time he was breathtakingly gorgeous.

I know he was handsome, but I didn’t know he would look anymore handsome.

We stopped in front of him, his blue orbs scanned me and I saw his eyes flashed with a strange emotion. But it was gone as soon as it came, he took my hand from my dad.

His hands were cold as like his face, but soft surprisingly.

The ceremony began, and passed in a blur. We said our vows and soon enough I was Mrs. Aria Vaughn Slade.

A name I never thought I would be associated with in a million years time.