The Man Next Door

Chapter I

Annabeth Clarke, 25 years old - Justine Skye
I imagine her to have tattoos like in the below image but with floral and astrological (sun and moon) designs instead

Disclaimer: none of the photos used are mine
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Annabeth's POV

I ran my hand on the delicate white fabric as I admired the beautiful lace pattern, "that's stunning" the bride said in awe, "and it's in your budget too" I reassured her with a soft smile while I carefully took the wedding dress off the hanger for her to try on. It looked perfect on her but most importantly, "how do you feel?" I asked her after she looked in the mirror, "I know it's cliché but I feel like a princess" she replied with teary eyes making me smile in return, "would you like to show your entourage?" I asked trying to contain my excitement. Once I received a shy nod of agreement I slowly opened the massive curtain and led the way, "oh mija, you look so beautiful" the mother emotionally said as the bride positioned herself in front of her family and bridal party with a grin on her face.

"Another happy bride" I proudly thought to myself while getting the dressing room ready for the next appointment, "can you imagine looking like that at your own wedding? So unflattering" I heard Lori snicker once I reached the back of the shop where only staff members have access, "I know, pregnant or not, why bother with a wedding if you're going to look that big" Steph joined in before they both started laughing. I rolled my eyes and quickly hung the dresses back up so that I could get away from those bitches. I couldn't stand that type of behavior but I couldn't say anything since I was 'the new assistant' and, annoyingly, it was hard enough to get this job because of my tattoos. I really wanted to do well here so that one day, I could hopefully open my own wedding dress shop. The ultimate dream would be to put my fashion design degree in use and design my own line, "now that would be the cherry on top" I smiled to myself feeling excited.

I was a hopeless romantic and it truly made me happy to see brides feeling confident and beautiful. Knowing I helped them feel that way was very rewarding. Although I would be lying if I said I didn't often daydream about my own wedding and what type of dress I would wear. Growing up I watched my parents fall more and more in love with each other, that was what I wanted for myself. Unfortunately it was easier said than done. In my 25 years on this planet, I had kissed my fair share of frogs but sadly none of them turned into a charming Prince. But you can't rush love, it'll happen when I least expect it and in the meantime I was going to focus on me. Hence why I was currently driving to the gym after finishing a long shift. Well that and because I paid for a year membership and my cheap ass didn't want to let the money go to waste.