To Kill Serena, To Become Her

"Ava?" a familiar voice called out.

I whipped my head around.

"That's right, Mom! It's her!"

"Ava? What's wrong?" Chloe asked, her brow furrowed with concern.

"Mom! He's going to leave you for her!"

"Impossible!" I couldn't help but shout.

Chloe flinched, her confusion giving way to concern.

"Ava, are you not feeling well?"

It could be anyone but her—

My adopted sister.

The runaway girl I had taken in from the streets.

She had once fought off bullies just to protect me.

I refused to believe the girl who stood by me during my most desperate hours could be Liam's mistress!

"It can't be..."

"It's true, Mom! If you don't believe me, look at Dad's phone!"

I turned, my gaze falling on the man before me, my lips parting in disbelief.

"It can't be," I thought, the name a silent plea. "Thea..."

"Ava?"

A warm, strong hand cupped my face, his deep eyes filled with nothing but concern.

"What are you talking about? Are you feeling unwell? I'll take you to rest."

"No."

I pulled away from his touch.

These were the same hands that had rescued me from the gilded cage my family had built.

Without him, I wouldn't be here today.

"I'm fine. Let's continue."

I looked up at him, his captivating eyes still overflowing with tenderness.

"You'll love me forever, right?"

"Of course," he answered without a hint of hesitation.

Our fingers gently intertwined.

Chloe covered her mouth, her eyes welling with tears of joy.

"Looks like someone's even more emotional than I am," he murmured, a fond smile touching his lips.

The officiant cleared his throat, preparing to read the vows.

I suddenly spoke up.

"Liam, let me see your phone."

The hand holding mine went rigid.

He let out an awkward laugh. "Ava, we're in the middle of our vows."

"So? You won't let me see it?"

"Of course not. You can see anything of mine, but... can we wait until after the wedding?"

"Mom, don't believe him! If you don't look now, he'll destroy the evidence! He does this all the time!"

I clenched my jaw.

I held out my hand. "Give it to me."

My sharp command stunned everyone.

Liam's smile froze on his face.