Chapter 10

Soon, it was time for the Engagement Party, and as it was Amy’s special day, both Mike and Erica personally welcomed the guests. The venue was nothing short of a fairy tale, dripping with opulence and charm. The grand hall shimmered under cascading crystal chandeliers entwined with delicate pink and white blooms, casting a golden glow over the celebration. Guests gathered around the elegantly set tables adorned with lush floral arrangements in hues of lavender and blush, their reflections dancing on the polished floors. At the heart of it all stood a magnificent stage—a golden birdcage-like structure illuminated with glowing lights, surrounded by delicate white blossoms and soft purple accents. The air buzzed with laughter and excitement as the stage stood elegantly under the dreamy canopy, awaiting the couple’s arrival, their love story set to begin its next enchanting chapter amidst the breathtaking splendour.

Mike, dressed in a light blue suit, exuded quiet joy. His attire wasn’t flashy, but it was undeniably elegant, reflecting the happiness he felt for his daughter. The soft linen felt cool against his skin, a welcome contrast to the nervous excitement bubbling within. Erica, on the other hand, was a vision of grace in a flowing light blue gown. The A-line silhouette of delicate tulle shimmered under the soft lighting. The high-neck bodice, adorned with intricate lace appliqués, pearls, and beads, caught the light with every movement. Long lace sleeves added elegance, while the lace-trimmed hem echoed the ornate detailing above. Ethereal and understated, the gown perfectly complemented the joyous mood of the evening.

As they welcomed guests, Olivia joined them, dressed in a blush pink tulle gown—a vision of ethereal softness. The off-the-shoulder sweetheart neckline complemented sheer, puffed sleeves tapering elegantly to her wrists. A delicate waist-cinching band adorned with pastel silk blossoms in peach rose, lavender and mint green added a romantic touch, with floral embellishments cascading down the voluminous skirt. The gown shimmered under the light, exuding fairy-tale elegance—perfect for a sister-in-law celebrating a special occasion.

Moments later, Daisy arrived in a breathtaking crimson gown, its voluminous tulle skirt cascading in delicate, layered waves that shimmered with every movement. The bodice, a masterpiece of intricate gold embroidery, hugged her torso in a sleeveless, high-neck design exuding regal sophistication. A slender, embellished waistband added a touch of refinement, blending structured elegance with flowing drama. The striking contrast of gold against deep red made her a vision of timeless luxury and modern allure. She rushed to Olivia, breathless, saying her sister needed help. Olivia, assuming she meant Evelyn, hurried to assist, only for Daisy to clarify that she was talking about Amy. Understanding her mistake, Olivia quickly went to Amy’s aid.

As Olivia left, Aaron and his family finally arrived. Aaron looked sharp in a tailored grey three-piece suit, exuding elegance and poise. A sleek black pocket square accented his slim-fit blazer, sitting perfectly over a matching waistcoat and fitted trousers. A crisp white shirt and a classic black tie completed his look, adding a touch of timeless sophistication. With polished black shoes and a subtle lapel pin, he carried an air of quiet authority, effortlessly embodying the grace of the occasion. Amelia, on the other hand, was a vision of grace in a charcoal-grey evening gown adorned with shimmering silver embroidery. The fitted bodice, encrusted with delicate beads, flowed into a voluminous tulle skirt, trailing softly with every step. Sheer long sleeves, subtly embellished with intricate lace patterns, added refined elegance. The sparkling belt at her waist accentuated her regal presence, making her a striking figure in the festivities.

As the Jones and Smith families exchanged pleasantries, Harry stood in a pristine white suit—a striking contrast against his black shirt and tie. The fitted vest and sharp lapels lent him effortless charm, while a burgundy pocket square provided a subtle yet bold accent. Every detail of his attire reflected the grandeur of the occasion. Beside him, Edward made a statement in a striking red suit, trimmed with black detailing along the lapels. His black shirt and deep red tie blended seamlessly, while a matching pocket square added a polished finish. His bold choice of colour mirrored his spirited personality, ensuring he stood out in the celebration.

Soon after, May and Lily arrived. May, twinning beautifully with Daisy, wore a shimmering gold-sequined bodice that caught the light with every movement, while her layered peach tulle skirt cascaded gracefully, creating a dreamy and elegant silhouette. Meanwhile, Lily’s dress was a statement of vanity—tight, blood-red, and shamelessly revealing. The cut-outs at the waist served no purpose but to flaunt, the fabric clinging desperately as if afraid to let go. The short, uneven hemline screamed for attention, while the flimsy side tie hung like a meaningless decoration. While Aaron and Harry disapproved, the rest of the guests seemed unbothered. After briefly introducing Lily to the Jones family, Mike and Erica decided to begin the Engagement Party, with Erica going to call Amy, Olivia, and Evelyn.

Erica escorted Amy, her brightest smile lighting up the room. Amy’s gown was a masterpiece of elegance—a strapless creation blending midnight blue into ethereal white. The structured bodice, with its delicate pleating, hugged her form gracefully, while the voluminous tulle skirt cascaded like a twilight sky fading into dawn. A delicate tiara adorned her hair, adding a touch of regal charm. The moment Harry laid eyes on Amy, he was starstruck, while Amelia and Aaron beamed with happiness at their beautiful daughter-in-law. However, Aaron soon noticed the absence of Evelyn and Olivia. As soon as he voiced his concern, Olivia hurried over—only to be pulled close by Jake, who exuded effortless charm in a tailored blush pink suit. Beside him stood Jack, refined and poised in a sharp charcoal grey three-piece suit.

Evelyn, arriving shortly after, was a vision in an ethereal ombre gown cascading from deep midnight blue to a soft champagne hue. The off-shoulder design, adorned with delicate tulle sleeves, highlighted her graceful frame, while sparkling embellishments at the bodice shimmered like scattered stardust. The velvety upper bodice accentuated her elegance, and the flowing layers of tulle gave her an almost otherworldly charm. As she stood silently, fairy lights filtering through, she looked like a dream woven in twilight and dawn—a vision of quiet strength and hidden allure. Like Harry, Edward was mesmerized by her beauty, but no one noticed except Lily, who raged at Evelyn for stealing her limelight. Determined to make her pay, she watched as Daisy excitedly explained her matching gown with May.

Soon, the Jones and Smith families gathered on stage—without Evelyn, as no one knew she was the young Miss of the Jones. Mike and Aaron welcomed the guests once more and announced the engagement’s commencement. May and Daisy brought the rings—elegant silver bands adorned with a single dazzling diamond, a perfect symbol of unity and love. With heartfelt confessions, Harry and Amy exchanged rings, sealing their promise with a kiss as the guests erupted in congratulations. However, when Evelyn wished them happiness, Amy’s displeasure at her presence was evident. While Harry happily thanked Evelyn, Mike ordered her to stand in a corner as punishment.

As Evelyn stood quietly with a glass of orange juice, Edward suddenly appeared, his voice cutting through the tension with a hint of curiosity. "Did you enjoy the punishment Mike gave you?" he asked, his eyes searching hers. "Did he shout at you? Or worse, did he slap you?"

Evelyn’s heart sank as the truth crashed down upon her. What Edward didn’t know was that the lie he had told earlier had led to two long hours of brutal punishment. She had suffered because of his false words.

She turned to face him, her voice trembling. "Why? Why did you lie? I’m not bothering you anymore. I haven’t even looked at you until now, just like you wanted. So why?"

Edward hesitated, guilt flickering in his eyes, but instead of offering an apology or explanation, he coldly replied, "Think about it yourself," before walking away without a second glance.

Evelyn stood frozen, her mind reeling with confusion. His words echoed in her ears, but the pain in her chest was overwhelming. It felt as though her heart had shattered all over again. As she stood there, her eyes empty, Lily approached with an arrogant, mocking smile. “What’s wrong? Did my baby say he’ll hurt you?” she taunted. Not wanting to make a scene, Evelyn silently asked what she wanted, bracing herself for whatever came next.

What Lily did, however, left her speechless. Without warning, Lily grabbed Evelyn’s hand, threw the drink on herself, and slapped her own face with a dramatic cry, “Oww, why did you do that? I have done nothing to anger you!” Evelyn was paralyzed, struggling to process the audacity of Lily’s actions—an obvious attempt to frame her.

But the shock didn’t end there. In the blink of an eye, Evelyn felt two sharp slaps across her face. What stunned her even more, however, was who had delivered them.

That’s it for now…

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