The Love From Vengeance

360: GEMS OF AFFECTION

ARIEL’S POV

Tessa grinned. “Let’s start with earrings. A pair of statement earrings would really elevate your look.”

Nodding in agreement, I followed her lead as we began sifting through the selection of earrings. Gold, silver, pearls–there were so many options to choose from. Finally, Tessa’s fingers landed on a pair of exquisite diamond drop earrings, their brilliance catching the light.

“These are perfect,” she declared, holding them up for me to see. “They’ll add just the right amount of glamour without overpowering the dress.”

I admired the earrings, and the thought of wearing them flashed through my head. “I love them.”

With the earrings chosen, we moved on to the next task: finding a necklace to complement them. After careful consideration, we chose a delicate diamond pendant on a fine chain, which perfectly complemented the dress’s intricate detailing with its understated elegance.

“And for bracelets?” Tessa pondered, scanning the displays once more.

I spotted a slender diamond bangle nestled among the other accessories; its simple yet sophisticated design caught my eye. “What about this one?” I suggested it, pointing it out to

her.

She nodded in approval. “Perfect. It ties everything together beautifully.”

With our selected accessories, I felt a sense of satisfaction. “I can’t thank you enough, Tessa. You have such an eye for fashion.”

She beamed at me. “It was my pleasure, Ariel. You’re going to look absolutely stunning tonight.”

“Well, thank you.” I blushed at the compliment.

“Well, well, well, who do we have here?” Simon approached us, walking slowly in our direction. “If it isn’t Ariel Walker and her worthless friend,”

He paused, then asked Tessa, “What’s your name again?”

“Oh, shut up!‘ She snapped at him. “What are you doing here?”

“I came here to get myself some clothes, just like you,” he answered with a plastic smile.

360 GEMS OF AFFECTION

2/4

know you’ve come here to play your vile games. But I don’t have time for

is that so?

tension cracking in the air as Simon’s gaze shifted to me. He took a step closer, his expression turning menacing, “But you, Ariel, always seem to find yourself in the wrong place

Simon. We can

my skin. “Don’t play dumb

of me,” I demanded, attempting to pull my hand free

“You will pay for what you’ve

the face

this. Let go of me now.”

a frustrated growl, Simon released my hand, his gaze narrowing in fury. “Fine,” he spat, taking a step back. “But don’t think

11

off, I let out a shaky breath, feeling a rush of relief wash over me. Turning to Tessa, I met her

concern as she nodded in agreement.

go somewhere

with Tessa, I followed her lead as we hurried away from the spot, leaving behind the echoes

****

fast.

express my love for her in the most

GEMS OF AFFECTION

nothing but the best. That’s why I decided to take her to

Luke?” Harriet asked as we

surprise,” I replied

3/4

arrived at the jewelry store, and Harriet’s eyes

”

of the

shouldn’t

chuckled. “I want to buy you something special.”

a small gasp. “Really? You don’t have to

show you how much you mean to me,” I said, taking her hand and leading

glittering gold, and shining silver. Harriet’s eyes darted around, taking in all the