The day was bright and lively, sunlight streaming into every corner of our cottage as preparations for the engagement party got underway. Harrison wanted to celebrate us-celebrate our love and the promise we’d made to each other. I was still floating in a haze of happiness, his proposal replaying in my mind like a perfect memory.
The party was set to begin in the late afternoon, and as the day went on, our home transformed. Harrison had gone all out, arranging a beautiful setup in our garden, complete with twinkling lights, delicate flowers, and tables decorated with fresh linens. It felt like a dream-a day I’d never imagined but always hoped for deep down.
As I finished getting ready, slipping into a light lavender dress Harrison had picked out, a wave of nerves hit me. Not about Harrison-I knew he was my forever. But I’d soon be seeing my stepsister, Victoria, and her boyfriend, Alex. My relationship with Victoria was complicated, to say the least. She’d always been… difficult. I wasn’t sure how she’d react to our engagement, and I hoped her presence wouldn’t stir up any drama.
Taking a deep breath, I joined Harrison outside, where he was arranging the final touches. He turned and his face lit up when he saw me.
“You look beautiful,” he said, pulling me close and pressing a soft kiss to my forehead.
I smiled up at him, my nerves settling a little. “You really went all out, didn’t you?”
“For you, I’d do anything,” he said, giving me a reassuring smile. “Today is just the start of our life together. I want everyone to see how much you mean to me.”
Guests began to arrive, filling the garden with laughter and conversation. Friends, family, and a few of Harrison’s business associates mingled around, sharing in our joy. I greeted everyone with a warmth I felt to my core, grateful that we were surrounded by people who genuinely cared.
Then, just as the sun began to dip lower, casting a warm glow over the garden, I spotted Victoria and Alex walking toward us. Victoria wore a sleek black dress that clung to her in a way that screamed of her need to be the center of attention. Alex followed close behind, his arm casually draped around her waist. He gave me a polite smile as they approached, but Victoria’s gaze was cool, assessing.
“Emma,” Victoria greeted, her tone flat. “Congratulations, I guess.”
I forced a polite smile. “Thanks, Victoria. I’m glad you could come.”
She looked around, her eyes taking in the decorations and the cheerful atmosphere. “This is… nice. I didn’t expect Harrison to do something so, well, simple.”
I bit back a sigh, already feeling the familiar sting of her judgment. But I wasn’t going to let her ruin my mood. “Simple is perfect for us,” I replied with a smile, hoping to keep the conversation light.
Harrison stepped up, extending a hand to Alex. “Glad you two could make it. Help yourselves to some food and drinks. We’re here to celebrate.”
Alex shook Harrison’s hand and gave me a kind nod. “Congratulations, Emma. Harrison’s a lucky man.”
Victoria rolled her eyes, but she plastered on a smile when Harrison turned his attention to her. “Victoria, nice to see you again,” he said, keeping his tone polite but distant.
“Likewise,” she replied, her voice as smooth as honey. “You two look… happy.”
“We are,” I said, squeezing Harrison’s hand. “Very happy.”
As the evening went on, the party was in full swing. Guests laughed, music played, and everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves. Harrison had arranged for a small, live band, and their soft melodies filled the air, giving the party a warm, romantic feel. I couldn’t stop smiling, feeling as if nothing could ruin this moment.
But, as I mingled with our guests, I couldn’t ignore the tension that lingered in Victoria’s gaze. She’d been watching me all evening, her eyes narrowing each time I laughed or shared a sweet moment with Harrison. It was as if my happiness bothered her, though I didn’t know
why. I tried not to let it bother me, reminding myself that today was about celebrating with the people who cared for us, not focusing on Victoria’s coldness.
I slipped away from the crowd for a moment, stepping into the quiet corner of the garden to collect my thoughts. The soft rustling of the trees and the distant chatter of guests helped to calm my nerves. The day had been perfect so far, but something in the back of my mind told me Victoria wasn’t going to let me enjoy it without stirring up some kind of trouble.
A few moments later, Harrison appeared beside me, his presence instantly grounding. “You okay?” he asked, his voice filled with concern.
I smiled up at him, leaning into his touch. “Just a little tired, but I’m fine. This has been amazing.”
Harrison kissed the top of my head. “It’s only just begun. Let’s not let anyone ruin it.”
I nodded, feeling the reassurance I needed. His strength always had a way of calming my worries. Just as we were about to head back to the party, I noticed Victoria’s figure at the far side of the garden, talking to Alex. She was looking directly at me, her expression unreadable.