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

come here to play your vile games. But I don’t have time for this nonsense right

composure. “Oh, is that so? And here I thought I was just enjoying a leisurely shopping

as Simon’s gaze shifted to me. He took a step closer, his expression turning menacing, “But

this, Simon. We can

fingers digging into my skin. “Don’t play dumb with me, Ariel. “You know exactly what you did, disrespecting my family

the pain in my hand. “Let go of me,” I demanded, attempting to pull my

Simon only tightened his grip, his eye glowing with malice. “You will pay for

face of his threats. “I won’t

this. Let go

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

11

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

concern as she nodded in

go

I followed her lead as we hurried away from the spot,

****

fast. Everything moved so fast,

to express my love for her in the most meaningful way possible, and I knew

OF AFFECTION

the best. That’s why I decided to take her to a Jewelry

going, Luke?” Harriet asked as

replied with a

3/4

eyes were filled with

”

jewelry shop, but one of the most expensive in New Haven.”

shouldn’t

“I want to buy you something

and she let out a small gasp. “Really? You don’t have

to me,”

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