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. But I don’t have time for this nonsense

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

in the air as Simon’s gaze shifted to me. He took a step closer, his expression turning menacing,

this, Simon. We

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

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

grip, his eye glowing with malice. “You will pay for what you’ve

my head defiantly, refusing to cower in the face of his threats. “I

this. Let go of

narrowing in fury. “Fine,” he spat, taking a step

11

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

she nodded in

go somewhere else.”

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

****

couldn’t believe it was already three days and how the relationship had been moving so fast. Everything moved so fast, and I wanted to make this day extra

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

GEMS OF AFFECTION

best. That’s why I decided to take her

we going, Luke?” Harriet asked as we walked

I replied with

3/4

Harriet’s eyes were filled with surprise. “A

”

but one of the most expensive in New Haven.”

you shouldn’t

“I want to buy you

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

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

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