From the outset

Two

Ryan's POV:

As we pulled up to the townhouse, Emily must have heard the sound of my car from inside, because she flung open the door to welcome us with a radiant smile. She enveloped Scarlett in a tight hug, nearly pulling her off balance.

"Scarlett, you're finally here!" Emily exclaimed, her voice trembling with excitement.

My mother, Claire, followed close behind, her eyes shining with warmth. "Darling, we're so glad you're here," she said, embracing Scarlett in a warm hug.

Scarlett laughed, returning their affection. "It's so great to see you both!"

I smiled, watching the reunion. It was clear Scarlett was more than just a friend to Emily; she was family.

As we stepped inside, the townhouse's elegant interior enveloped us, filled with the scent of fresh flowers and baking. My Dad also welcomed Scarlett to the family with a warm smile.

"Welcome, Scarlett," he said. "We've been expecting you."

The warmth and love surrounding Scarlett made me feel a pang in my chest. Victoria never received this kind of welcome from my family; they were always distant whenever she was around.

"Ryan, can you take Scarlett's bags upstairs?" my mother asked, breaking the spell.

I nodded, grateful for the distraction. As I carried Scarlett's luggage, I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror. My expression was tinged with sadness.

Why couldn't Victoria connect with my family like Scarlett did?

Downstairs, Scarlett was regaling my family with stories of Texas, her laughter infectious. I joined them, listening intently. Her laughter her smile everything about her seemed authentic. a stark contrast to Victoria's polished, calculated facade. I couldn't explain why but she drew me in.

My mind wandered comparing Victoria's increasing distant behavior to Scarlett's warm and genuine nature with Victoria every conversation felt scripted her smiles carefully crafted. But Scarlett's laughter was infectious, her stories captivating.

As I watched Scarlett effortlessly win over my family, my doubts about Victoria intensified. Why couldn't Victoria be more genuine, more caring?

Victoria's endless excuses, always blaming work, now seemed shallow. I suspected she was hiding something, but my love and commitment kept me from confronting her.

Scarlett, on the other hand, was a breath of fresh air. Her authenticity drew me in, making me question my relationship with Victoria.

Thoughts swirled in my head:

Did Victoria truly care about me?

What's this feeling I feel when I'm around Scarlett?

I pushed aside these thoughts, unsure how to reconcile my feelings.

"Why am I so drawn to her?" I wondered feeling a pang of guilt. Victoria crossed my mind but I shoved the thought of her aside. my gaze shifted to Scarlett admiring her lovely features just then my phone buzz, I received a text from Victoria.
" hey sweet how is it going, so sorry I couldn't make it to the townhouse today will be there tomorrow love you" I stared at the text for a while then I replied "I'll text u later busy with the wedding preparation.
I hesitated, feeling uneasy about the response. But what could I say? Victoria's messages stirred mixed emotions.