A moment later, Ariana’s assistant returned with refreshments before quietly leaving again, and the three of us spent what felt like forever going through the portfolio.
By the time we finally settled on a few designs, it was already getting dark outside.
“Ariana, you’ve accommodated us so well today,” Aunt Rose said warmly.
“I know how busy you are, yet you stayed with us the entire afternoon and agreed to take on this order at such short notice.” “Don’t say that, Aunt,” Ariana replied, glancing at me with a gentle smile.
“It’s my favorite cousin’s wedding.
Of course I should be the one doing all this.” She sighed dramatically before adding with a laugh, “It’s already bad enough that I probably won’t be able to help with the rest of the preparations.” “Sister, you don’t need to feel guilty,” I said with a faint smile.
“You’ve always been there for me.” Her eyes softened even more.
“I still can’t believe the little girl I used to see running around has grown up and is actually getting married.” She reached over and gently squeezed my hand.
Ariana was a few years older than me, and we’d known each other long before my parents passed away.
She had watched me grow up over the years, which was why she’d always felt more like the older sister I never had.
Our little emotional moment was interrupted by Aunt Rose, who had been quietly watching us with an amused smile.
“How about I treat the two of you to dinner tonight?” “There’s a new French restaurant just across the street,” Ariana chimed in immediately.
Aunt Rose chuckled.
“Your mood changes so quickly.” “Alright.” “Finish up here and meet us outside.” My aunt and I headed downstairs first while Ariana stayed behind to wrap up a few things in her office.
A few minutes later, she joined us outside, and we drove to the restaurant, my aunt leading the way while Ariana followed behind in her own car.
The restaurant was only a short drive from Ari’s Fashion World, so we arrived within minutes.
After parking, we stepped out of the car.
I quietly admired the elegant glass exterior as we walked toward the entrance.
Polished marble framed the grand doorway, while warm lights reflected softly against the building, giving it a timeless elegance that blended perfectly with the luxury of the surrounding district…
As we approached the entrance, Ariana suddenly turned to aunt rose.
“Where exactly is Alexander?
Shouldn’t he be here with you today?” “I did ask him to come,” she replied with a small smile.
“But you already know your cousin, Ariana.” Ariana rolled her eyes.
“Work,” she muttered in annoyance.
“That’s all he ever cares about.
The last time I saw him was at the celebration, and now he’s skipping something this important…” I hadn’t really expected Alexander to come.
Still…
The thought that this might become my everyday life after we got married—that I might always be lonely—left an uncomfortable ache in my heart.
From the corner of my eye, I noticed Aunt Rose gently nudge Ariana.
They had clearly noticed my reaction.
“Don’t worry, Alice,” Aunt Rose said gently.
“Next time I’ll make sure he comes.” I smiled faintly.
“There’s really no need for that.
Alexander is always busy.” “No,” she interrupted firmly.
“That’s not alright.” She reached into her handbag and took out her phone.
“You two go inside and order first.
I’ll join you in a moment.” By the look on her face, I had a feeling I knew exactly what she intended to do.
Still, I didn’t say anything and simply followed Ariana inside.
A hostess led us to our table, and we placed our orders.
A few minutes later, Aunt Rose joined us.
She looked slightly disappointed, though she didn’t say a word about where she’d been, and neither Ariana nor I asked.
I assumed my guess had been right.
Alexander wasn’t coming.
Oddly enough, I felt a little relieved.
At least we wouldn’t have to endure the awkwardness between us tonight.
With Ariana around, the atmosphere at the table never became dull.
She chatted endlessly, filling the silence with amusing stories until our meals arrived.
After dinner, Aunt Rose settled the bill, and together we walked out of the restaurant.
“Thank you for today, Sister Ariana.” I stepped forward and hugged her warmly.
She smiled before hugging Aunt Rose as well.
“And thank you for dinner, Aunty.
Don’t worry about the dress—I promise everything will be ready on time.” She had just turned toward her car when a familiar deep voice sounded from behind us.
“Leaving already?” All three of us turned at once.
A short distance away stood Alexander.
He had one hand tucked casually into the pocket of his tailored black suit trousers, while the sleeves of his crisp white shirt were neatly rolled to his forearms, as though he’d come straight from work without even stopping to change.
Under the warm glow of the evening lights, he looked effortlessly composed, his calm gaze fixed on us with the usual unreadable expression on his face.