After running away from home seven years ago to escape a loveless arranged marriage, Kyra Wilder has finally mastered up the courage to be back in her small town of Ruthwell in Washington DC. She’s ready for a second chance with her parents and the people who used to be her friends back in high school and most of all, she’s ready to tell her parents that she’s about to become a bride.
But the small town she lived in hasn’t changed all that much in the past seven years and no one seems to have forgotten her betrayal, or seems anywhere near ready to forgive her for her past mistakes. Everywhere she goes, she’s met with hostility and anger and it’s thinning out her chances of redemption ever second. Now, how does she tell her parents and her friends that not only has she moved on in her life, further than anyone had ever anticipated, but she’s happy and successful in what she does? And amid all the truths and revelations, how does she tell everyone that she isn’t marrying a man, but the woman of her dreams?

The Bride GL

Seven years have passed, and today, as I scroll through my long list of unread messages, I come across one from Gabby. 


My excitement to read it fades into a tinge of disappointment as she explains she won't be able to join me for our much awaited picnic. 


A fan-signing event has claimed her time, a testament to her growing success. 


Despite my initial letdown, a genuine smile tugs at my lips; I'm genuinely happy about her achievements. 


Even though we now share a house together as a couple, it feels like we hardly get to see each other. 


As I set my phone aside, a call from my manager interrupts my thoughts. 


Duty calls, and I find myself on the set of a women's garment photoshoot. 


The camera clicks away as I strike poses, the fabric flowing gracefully around me. 


Amid the shoot, a subtle pang of realization hits me – Gabby and I, once inseparable, now find our lives consumed by our respective careers. 


Chapter 27: Drifting Apart?