Chapter 1 Arriving

As I gaze out the car window, the vibrant city lights of New York mesmerize me. A soft smile plays on my lips, recalling the thrill of returning to this sleepless city after a long absence. I take a moment to assess my outfit for tonight's event - a stylish halter-neck Tosca dress with a fitted waist and leg slit, paired with swept-back wavy blonde hair. I feel confident in my choice, suitable for one of the year's most anticipated events. My cousin Sienna, radiant in her one-shoulder maroon dress, catches my eye, while her brother Max, dashing in his navy suit, is engrossed in his phone.

Our aunt and uncle, Melanie and Vaughn, sit in the front seats, while my parents are currently abroad on a business trip. To avoid a lonely summer in Texas, my dad arranged for me to stay with his sister in New York, where I can spend time with my loved ones and friends. Max interrupts my thoughts, announcing that his fiancée, Luna, is eagerly awaiting our arrival. I still find it remarkable that Max proposed to Luna right after starting college, but their love is undeniable. When Max shared the news, we all supported their decision to postpone their wedding until after graduation.

As we step out of the car, the grandeur of the wedding hall's entrance takes my breath away. The who's who of the celebrity world are gathered here tonight to celebrate Aiden Klein's special day. The paparazzi and reporters are out in full force, eager to capture every moment of this high-profile event.

Sienna leans in, whispering, "Remember to behave yourself; I want to take photos with some of these A-listers!" I chuckle, and as we enter the lavish reception hall, I'm struck by the sheer scale and opulence. The room is abuzz with famous faces, from Hollywood stars to supermodels, singers, and politicians.

Max makes his way over to Luna, who looks radiant in her silver gown, her hair styled in an elegant updo. They share a tender moment, and Max can't help but gaze at her with adoration. "You look stunning, happy, and a little nervous," he says with a smile. Luna's response is laced with a mix of emotions: "Of course, I am; it's my brother's wedding day!"

As we take our seats, I can feel the excitement building. This is going to be a night to remember, and I'm honored to be a part of it.

Luna turns to me with a beaming smile, her eyes sparkling with delight. "Nevaeh, thank you so much for being here tonight!" We share a warm hug, and I feel grateful to be included in this special celebration. "It's so great to see you again; I've missed you!" I return her smile, feeling happy to be surrounded by such a loving and supportive group of people.

As we take our seats, I can't help but glance around the impressive hall. I've never seen a venue this large, and I'm struck by the sheer scale of the event. I spot Uncle Vaughn and Aunt Melanie chatting with Luna's parents, Lucas and Cassandra Klein, who seem a bit overwhelmed but understandably so, given the significance of the occasion.

My gaze then falls on the groom, Aiden Klein, who looks dashing in his tuxedo, his hair styled in a sleek, classic look. He's engaged in conversation with Cal Jackson, a renowned superstar and close friend of the Klein family. I also notice Cal's wife and children, including Jasmine Jackson and the famous twin brothers, all of whom are beaming with happiness.

Luna's voice breaks into my thoughts, filled with excitement and emotion. "Can you believe it's finally happening? Aiden and Olivia are tying the knot after five incredible years together!" She shares stories about their love story, including their two-year long-distance relationship while Olivia completed her master's degree in London. "They're meant to be, and I'm so overjoyed to see them finally get married."

I listen intently, having heard about Olivia Stone, the daughter of successful businessman Alexander Stone, and how she's a perfect match for Aiden.

Aiden and Olivia's relationship has been remarkably private, shielded from the media's scrutiny. However, since their engagement made headlines, public interest has been palpable. Max whispers a playful remark to Luna, "You'll be a bride soon too," and kisses her hand, drawing attention to her engagement ring. Luna's eyes still shimmer with happy tears as she smiles at him.

I redirect my focus to Aiden, who exudes contentment tonight. His smile remains fixed as he engages with guests, his eyes sparkling with joy and laughter. When the guests momentarily excuse themselves, Aiden takes a deep breath, appearing to calm his nerves. It's evident he's struggling to contain his excitement. His love for Olivia Stone is palpable, and I find myself smiling in happiness for the couple. Olivia is indeed fortunate to have a man who loves her so deeply.

Sienna interrupts my thoughts, "Did you hear that? My stomach just growled," she says, biting her lip. "I'm starving!" I chuckle at her candid remark. We spend the next few moments chatting and taking photos with Luna and Max. When I mention needing to visit the restroom, Sienna raises an eyebrow, noting that the ceremony is about to begin. I prioritize my bladder over the procession, joking that I'll return soon.

But the man standing before Olivia isn't Aiden - I saw him earlier in the hall. "Roman, please," Olivia begs, her voice trembling. "It was a mistake." She implores him with her eyes to stop whatever he's doing. Roman's jaw clenches, his voice laced with vulnerability. "You can't do this to us." He fists his hand, controlling his anger. "You can't just go back to him after what happened?" Olivia shakes her head, her voice cracking. "I'm sorry... I love him." Guilt fills her voice. "I love Aiden." Roman scoffs, pain evident in his expression. "No, you don't. If you did, you wouldn't have cheated on him with his best friend." Olivia cries, and my heart breaks for the man waiting at the altar. The world around me freezes. What's happening? Did I just hear them right? Did they betray Aiden? "Roman," Olivia pleads, tears streaming down her face. "I was stressed, alone, and confused. I made a mistake, and so did you. What we did was horrible." Roman's eyes widen in disbelief, his voice frustrated and menacing. "Come on, Olivia. It wasn't just one time. You didn't think about Aiden when you were in my arms, on my bed." My stomach churns with a horrible feeling, and I'm paralyzed with shock. I want to flee but can't move. "You said you love Aiden?" Roman scoffs again. "That's bullshit." Olivia's tears flow hard, and I'm consumed by the weight of what I've just witnessed.