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

regained his composure. “Oh, is that so? And here I thought I

step closer, his expression turning menacing, “But you, Ariel, always

stiffened, instinctively taking a step back. “There’s no need for all this, Simon. We can just go now and

tightening on my hand and his fingers digging into my skin. “Don’t play dumb with me, Ariel. “You

my hand. “Let go of me,” I demanded, attempting to pull my hand free from

with malice. “You will pay for what you’ve done,” he hissed, his voice low and dangerous.

to cower in the face of his

go of me now.”

released my hand, his gaze narrowing in fury. “Fine,” he spat, taking a step back. “But don’t think this is over, Ariel.

11

of relief wash over me. Turning to Tessa,

was filled with concern as she nodded in

go somewhere else.”

spot, leaving behind the echoes of his threats and the lingering sense

****

so fast. Everything moved so fast, and I wanted to make this

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

GEMS OF AFFECTION

why I decided

going, Luke?” Harriet asked as we walked hand in hand

replied with a smile.

3/4

at the jewelry store, and Harriet’s eyes were filled

”

of the most expensive in

you shouldn’t

to buy you something

widened, and she let out a small gasp.

want to.“Please, let me show you how much you mean to me,” I said, taking her hand and

darted around, taking in all the beautiful pieces. It was clear that she was in awe.