Beyond the Fireworks

Ashley had always been a romantic at heart, but when Jayden proposed, she said yes for all the wrong reasons. He was prosperous, stable, and came from a wealthy background. Her father had even encouraged the match, saying things like "marry the rich kid" and "money can buy happiness".

At first, Ashley thought that their engagement was a practical decision that made sense on paper. She convinced herself that love wasn't everything, that stability and security were more important in the long run. But as the wedding approached, she started to feel a sense of unease. She couldn't shake the feeling that she was making a mistake.

Despite her doubts, Ashley decided to go through with the wedding, thinking that once she saved her father's struggling company, she could always remarry someone she truly loved. But on the day of the wedding, as she saw Jayden waiting for her at the altar, all her thoughts came crashing down.

She realized that she couldn't go through with the wedding just for the sake of money or convenience. She wanted someone who loved her for who she was, not for her family's wealth or social status. She wanted someone who made her heart skip a beat, who made her laugh, and who made her feel alive.

As she walked down the aisle, Ashley felt a wave of panic and uncertainty wash over her. But then, she looked into Jayden's eyes, and something shifted. She saw the kindness, warmth, and compassion that he had always possessed, but that she had overlooked in her pursuit of material success.