VELVET VENGEANCE: TO RUIN A DYNASTY

Viviene's POV

The Donovan Mansion buzzes with excitement. Past the lavish gates, the world pushes ahead, longing to witness a luxury event. Outside the estate, cameramen, reporters, and socialites form a crowd, their voices undulating like waves on a rocky shore. They came for one reason: The Wedding of the Year. Between I, Viviene Donovan and the powerful Damien Calloway.

The air inside brims with a rich scent of roses and wood, as chandeliers illuminate the marble in golden light. All surfaces sparkle, highlighting the Donovan family's crafted elegance. Footsteps rush through the corridors as maids carry satin and lace, while stylists navigate the chaos, making adjustments.

I'm in the middle of it all.

I look at my flawless, doll-like image in the dressing room mirror. A soft blush on my cheeks, pearls in my hair, and lace from my veil floating over my shoulders. Everything's set. All is as planned.

My gown gleamed with luxury. It hugs my body fully with a bodice blinged out in pearls and diamonds, flowing into an enclosed chiffon convoy that overflows on the floor like glowing waves. This gown captures everyone's view and stops the crowd in their tracks. This is me.

I smile and lift my phone to my ear as Damien's smooth voice comes through.

"We'll meet soon."

Warmth fills me as I finish the call, my heart racing.

Damien Calloway.

Billionaire. Power broker. The man every woman dreams of marrying is mine.

I ignore the envious murmurs of gold-diggers. They do not understand what it is to be chosen. To attract a man like Damien.

The world will see it today.

Today, I take on the name Viviene Calloway.

I stand, gliding my hands over the gown, enjoying the soft silk on my fingers.

The mansion buzzes with activity outside.

In a flurry, staff verify final arrangements. The gardens now resemble a dream, with white flowers climbing gold arches and candlelit paths shining in the sun. Guests flock in stylish gowns and suits, excited to join the Donovan-Calloway union.

(At the Venue)

The crowd at the church is growing.

The Sanctum de Luna Cathedral showcases old-world elegance with its ivory stone and stained glass. The pews overflow, and the aisle shines like marble, bordered by tall white roses. The press waits outside, capturing every moment with bright flashes.

The crowd goes silent.

An elegant, custom car moves through the iron gates of the cathedral.

Damien Calloway's new purchase.

Aeternum Knight stands as the first hyper-luxury grand tourer. Its carbon-fibre body, midnight black, absorbs light for an ethereal shine. The edges look fierce yet elegant. A machine from a future where power is commanded and not requested. A phoenix emblem shines on the hood, symbolizing rebirth and power.

The doors rise open, straight and smooth.

Then came Damien.

He exits the car, embodying strength and control. His tailored three-piece suit fits him perfectly, featuring an ink-black colour with a slight shine. His dress shirt's crisp white collar reveals a hint of golden skin and a subtle smirk.

The cameras go wild.

Flashes light him up like a god coming to take his throne. He walks slowly, making a statement with each step. The crowd recognizes him without his acknowledgement.

A car arrives moments later.

Sleek. White. Elegant. Weaving through the crowd and past my car. It slows down beside my car and I wonder why. I don't have the time to process that before I catch a glimpse of my parents car.

The Donovan family crest features a rose wrapped around a dagger, shining on the hood. My parents exit first, smiling brightly and holding hands in triumph. This marks the peak of their efforts and sacrifices. Their daughter weds the city's most powerful man.

Reporters rush in, microphones aimed at them.

"Mr. Donovan! How does it feel to be hosting the wedding of the year?"

"Viviene's dress is stunning! Who designed it?"

"Mrs. Rachael, any last words before your daughter becomes Mrs. Calloway?"

They respond kindly, embodying wealth and poise.

It's finally time.

I breathe out, finding my balance.

This is it.

As soon as I exit, I belong to him.

I hold my hand near the handle.

Inhale deeply.

I open the door.

Silence greets me.

Not the anticipation of admiration I had envisioned I would receive from the spectators because of my beauty, but of something else. Before me is someone I never thought was alive.

In an ivory satin vision. A train flowing behind her like liquid moonlight. Hair styled in graceful waves, soft strands outline her face.

Aria.

Exiting Damien's car.

Wearing a wedding dress.

The world tilts.

I feel a chill that freezes my limbs and leaves me breathless.