𝐌𝐚𝐬𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐬

Chapter 2: The Wedding

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The next day, the sun shone brightly over Moscow, a deceptive calm masking the turmoil within Sofia. She had barely slept, her mind haunted by the confrontation with her father. Today was supposed to be a day of celebration-a mutual friend's wedding-but all she could think about was the impending conflict.

Dressed in an elegant emerald gown, Sofia arrived at the lavish venue. The opulence of the occasion did little to lift her spirits. She moved through the crowd, her smile a mask hiding her inner turmoil. Friends and acquaintances greeted her, oblivious to the storm brewing beneath her composed exterior.

After the church ceremony, the guests gathered in the grand hall for the reception. Crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, casting a warm glow over the elegantly decorated tables. Laughter and music filled the air, but Sofia felt like an outsider in her own life.

As she stepped onto the balcony to catch her breath, she noticed a man standing alone, his gaze fixed on the cityscape. He turned as she approached, and their eyes met.

"In a world full of chaos, you are my calm," he said softly, his voice carrying a sincerity that took her by surprise.

She blinked, momentarily taken aback. "I don't believe we've met," she replied, her voice steady despite the flutter in her chest.

"I'm Alexei Ivanov," he introduced himself, extending a hand. "A friend of the groom."

Sofia's heart skipped a beat. Ivanov-a name tied to her family's rival. But she pushed the thought aside, taking his hand. "Sofia Petrova."

They shook hands, and Sofia felt a spark of something indefinable passing between them. For a moment, the chaos of her world faded away as they engaged in conversation.

"So, Sofia Petrova, what brings you to this lovely wedding?" Alexei asked, a playful smile dancing on his lips.

"I'm a friend of the bride," Sofia replied, matching his smile. "And you? How do you know the groom?"

"We go way back. School friends," Alexei said. "But let's not talk about them. Tell me about you. What does someone as intriguing as you do?"

Sofia laughed softly, a melodic sound that made Alexei's heart skip a beat. "Intriguing? That's quite a compliment. I'm just a simple girl living in a complicated world."

Alexei raised an eyebrow. "A simple girl, huh? Somehow, I find that hard to believe."

"Why is that?" Sofia asked, leaning in slightly, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

"Because someone as captivating as you must have a fascinating story," he replied, his voice dropping to a husky whisper.

Sofia felt a blush creep up her cheeks. "Well, maybe you'll get to hear it someday."

"I'd like that," Alexei said, his gaze never leaving hers.

As the evening progressed, Sofia found herself drawn to Alexei. His laughter was infectious, and his stories painted a picture of a life so different from her own. They danced, their bodies moving in perfect harmony, and for the first time in a long while, Sofia felt a glimmer of hope.

"You know," Alexei said as they swayed to the music, "I don't usually believe in fate, but meeting you tonight feels like more than just coincidence."

"Maybe it is," Sofia replied, her voice soft. "Or maybe it's just the magic of weddings."

"Maybe," Alexei agreed. "But I think it's you that's making tonight magical."

Sofia smiled, feeling a warmth spread through her chest. "You have a way with words, Alexei Ivanov."

"I only speak the truth," he said, his eyes locking with hers. "And the truth is, I haven't been able to take my eyes off you all night."

The reception began to wind down, and guests started to leave. Sofia noticed how late it had become and realized she should be heading home. As she made her way to the exit, she felt a gentle tap on her shoulder.

"Can I drive you home?" Alexei asked, his eyes sincere and hopeful.

Sofia hesitated for a moment but then nodded. "I would like that."

They walked to his car, a sleek black sedan, and he opened the door for her. The drive through the city was quiet, the streets almost deserted. Alexei stole glances at Sofia, noting the way the city lights played on her serene face.

"Thank you for tonight," Sofia said softly, breaking the silence. "I needed this."

"I'm glad I could be there," Alexei replied. "You seem like you have a lot on your mind."

Sofia turned to look at him, the weight of her secrets pressing down on her. "We all have our burdens," she said simply.

They arrived at the Petrova mansion, and Alexei pulled up to the gate. Sofia turned to him, a hint of sadness in her eyes. "Goodnight, Alexei."

"Goodnight, Sofia," he said, his voice gentle. "I hope to see you again soon."

She nodded and stepped out of the car, watching as he drove away. As she walked towards the mansion, she couldn't help but feel a pang of longing. In Alexei, she had found a moment of peace in her chaotic world. Little did she know that their paths were destined to cross again, in ways neither of them could have foreseen.

"Oh, what an exhausting day, right?" she her inner voice said and sighed.

After she got in the mansion, trying to be quiet since everyone was sleeping, she decided to take a bath really quick and then head to bed. She didn't even put any effort to stay awake so she could tell her best friend, Elena, what happened at the wedding.

heyyy! its the author Yui! cant wait to write the next chapter! goodnight 💤