Heir of Deception | (for mature audience)

Chapter 34: Alexandria

Alexandria

—

The wedding is just several weeks away, and with every passing day, my stress mounts, leaving me skipping meals and feeling increasingly anxious. The only times I manage to eat lunch are when I meet Ava or catch up with friends. I’m trying so hard to maintain my weight, desperately hoping my wedding dress will fit perfectly for the big day. During my last two fittings with Aliyah, she had to make adjustments, and the thought of not fitting into my dream dress fills me with dread.

"It fits like a glove," Aliyah said, standing behind me, her voice filled with warmth.

"Yeah, it looks amazing," I replied, admiring my reflection in the wedding dress, a mix of excitement and nervousness bubbling inside me. "I'm so excited!" I couldn't help but smile, though a flutter of anxiety danced in my stomach.

"I have to make a few adjustments, but it will be perfect when the day comes," she reassured me, her smile radiating confidence.

"I'm really excited," I echoed, unable to contain the overwhelming joy that surged within me.

"Me too," she said, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "I have one more question for you."

"Yesz I made sure Chris Junior is sitting next to you at the wedding," I joked, laughter escaping my lips, but beneath it lay a layer of apprehension.

During our early wedding planning sessions, Aliyah had confided in me about her crush on Christopher Jr. I understood completely; he’s handsome, and she’s drop-dead gorgeous. They would make an incredible couple.

"Thank you, but that's not what I was going to ask," she chuckled, her laughter easing the tension in the air.

"What is it then?" I asked, anxiety creeping back in as I sensed something significant was coming.

"I have two spots at my table for the Met Gala, and I was hoping you and Christian could join me," she said, fidgeting with her fingers.

The Met Gala—one of the most prestigious events in fashion, where only the elite are invited with guest only approved by Vogue's editor. My heart raced at the thought of attending. This was a golden opportunity, one I had dreamed of for as long as I could remember.

"I would love to, but the Met Gala is just four days before the wedding, and I don’t think I can manage both," I replied, feeling a wave of disappointment wash over me. It felt like a dream slipping through my fingers.

"Please, it would mean the world to me," she urged, her eyes pleading. "I already have a few outfits drawn up for you and him."

"I'm really sorry, but with the stress of the wedding and the Met Gala, I don’t think I can juggle both," I said, my heart aching at the thought of missing out on something so monumental.

"Just think about it," she said softly, a hint of hope in her voice.

"I'll think about it," I smiled weakly, knowing deep down it was a decision that weighed heavily on my heart.

"Let me show you the designs I have for you," she said, her excitement infectious as she jumped up, her energy a bright spot in my otherwise chaotic world.

—

When I got home, my thoughts spiraled around the possibility of attending the Met Gala with the man I love. A mix of excitement and guilt flooded me. I regretted letting her show me those stunning gowns; I had already fallen in love with one, and the thought of wearing it felt like a fantasy. Time was running out for a decision, but I was torn between my heart and my responsibilities.

With the wedding stress already pressing down on me, I worried that adding another layer of chaos would be unbearable. Ava and I had struggled with transportation arrangements, but we managed to sort it out, a small victory amidst a sea of anxiety.

"Hey, can I ask you something?" I said, poking at my food with my fork, my heart racing.

"Of course, princess," he replied, his voice a soothing balm to my frayed nerves.

"I had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity offered to me, but it's just days before our wedding," I said, meeting his gaze, hoping he would understand.

"What is it, princess?" he asked, curiosity dancing in his eyes.

"Aliyah invited us to the Met Gala, but I declined," I confessed, the weight of my decision pressing heavily on my chest.

"Why?" he asked, confusion etched on his face.

"I don’t know; the stress of the wedding and the Met Gala feels overwhelming," I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper.

"I understand," he said thoughtfully, his expression softening. "Can I ask you something?"

"Yes," I nodded, my heart pounding in anticipation.

"Is this important to you, princess?" His gaze bore into mine, searching for the truth.

"Yes, it could mean so much for my career," I explained, my voice trembling with emotion. "Attending the Met Gala could open up countless opportunities for me, and going is one of the most..."

"Then you will be attending," he said firmly, a reassuring smile spreading across his face. "Ava can handle the rest, and you can focus on the Met Gala, princess."

"You’ll have to come too," I insisted, my heart swelling with gratitude.

"No problem, princess," he replied, his smile brightening my world. "Now call Aliyah and let her know we’ll be there."