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

vile games.

his composure. “Oh, is that so?

to me. He took a step closer, his expression turning menacing, “But you, Ariel, always seem to find yourself

no need for all this, Simon. We can

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

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

his grip, his eye glowing with malice. “You will

the face of his threats. “I won’t let you

Let go of me now.”

narrowing in fury. “Fine,” he spat, taking a step back. “But don’t think this is over, Ariel. You haven’t heard the last of me.

11

relief wash over me. Turning to

she nodded in

go somewhere

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

****

couldn’t believe it was already three days and how the relationship had been moving so fast. Everything moved so fast, and

wanted to express my love for her in the most meaningful

GEMS OF

but the best. That’s why I decided to

Harriet asked as we walked hand

replied

3/4

eyes were filled with surprise.

”

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

you shouldn’t have.”

chuckled. “I want to buy you

gasp. “Really? You don’t have to

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

shining silver. Harriet’s eyes darted around, taking in all the beautiful pieces. It