The Unexpected Bride

Chapter One Hundred and Fifty-Five

What a time to be alive! The hustle and bustle in the company was over, and everyone could breathe plenty of oxygen into their lungs.

The models and famous people had arrived safely; the designated hotel booked. The giant box on the bucket list ticked off. Everyone who suffered with a few bags under their eyes could sleep soundly.

Today was September 4th, the first day of the weekend-long yearly event.

All who slaved away had the option to attend with a plus one to this festive moment or request time off. Taking advantage of the opportunities provided, the people bought and wore their best.

Leaving everything in suspense, they looked forward to gracing their presence in the world of glittery. Promised with a weeklong holiday, free reservations to outstanding restaurants and hotels, stupendous dinners, and an unforgotten night out, the sacrifices given were an investment.

The festive fever paradise was at an all-time high in the company, and like the others who looked forward to the benefits, Sharlene embraced the joyous atmosphere. Receiving a VIP invitation because of her connection to Madam Sinclair and Princess Presley, she was walking on a crystal road decorated with petals.

She was giddy, excited, and nervous all at the same time since that was her first invitation that was not business structured.

"Your rings are missing."

Rita pointed out, breaking her out of her reverie. Given the willing task of dolling Sharlene up for the special occasion, her eyes were as sharp as an eagle.

Sharlene, who was all smiles, suddenly gasped as she raised her recently manicured right hand.

"Huh?"

"Don't tell me you placed them somewhere you can't find it?"

Rita tsked as she skillfully curled and styled Sharlene's hair.

"Maybe I left them on the sink counter...no the kitchen...oh, what am I going to do, Riri?"

"Don't fret."

Proudly smiling as she admired her work, Rita patted her back. "Wherever you left it in the house, it will be found. The worst-case scenario could be Mrs. C sweeping and placing them in the bin by mistake."

"Riri!" Sharlene stood with a gasp, "don't scare me like that. You know how important the rings are to me."

Rita's smile broadened, and she wiggled her eyebrows. "Sorry, sorry. I know. Your romance has been blossoming like spring roses. Those rings missing would be detrimental."

Sharlene glared, but the blush on her face said otherwise. Brushing the stubborn strand of hair from her eye, Rita reassured.

"So don't be a worry wort. Even if you lose them, Nick can buy better ones to replace them. He has shown from his unending delivery of gifts that he can buy another in a heartbeat."

Sharlene opened her mouth to retort on her latter words, but she quickly tapped the screen of her phone and said with an exaggerated gasp, "Look at the time. It is quarter to five. Your chauffeur could be here anytime from now."

Sighing, Sharlene grabbed her purse from the bed.

"Don't be so down," Rita cooed. Lifting her favorite camera, she encouraged. "You need to smile for the camera. Say cheese, pretty fairy."

Snapping a few pictures to which Sharlene posed, Rita did her famous seal claps as she marveled at her handiwork.

"Oh, sweetie, you look beautiful."

Helena, who had walked into the room during their unprofessional photoshoot, could not help but tear up.

Sharlene walked over to comfort her, a blush dusting her cheeks.