Carson's chest felt heavy when he woke up. Even though Alice had been gone for a week, it seemed like a long time. He looked at the ceiling because he didn't want to get up and act like everything was fine again."Carson! What are you doing?" The sound of his mom's words came from the doorway opposite. "We have a busy day ahead!"Carson made a sound. No problem. Things for the wedding again. He shook himself out of bed and called back, "I'm up, Mom!"Trying to get dressed, he looked at himself in the mirror. His eyes looked tired because they were dark. He whispered to himself, "Pull yourself together." "You have a job to do."It was already very busy downstairs in the house. Mrs. MacPherson, Carson's mom, was in the living room with a wedding planner and lots of mags and fabric pieces all around them.Mrs MacPherson was glad to see Carson and said, "Oh, good, you're here." "We want to know what you think about the color scheme." Margaret likes pink, but I believe blue is more classy.
Margaret woke up early with a big smile on her face. It looked like today would be a good day. She couldn't wait to start planning the wedding with the MacPhersons, which took up all of her time.She looked at herself in the mirror as she dressed. "You're going to be Mrs. Carson MacPherson," she told herself. "Everything has to be perfect."She got to the MacPherson home right on time. Mrs. MacPherson gave her a hug when she got to the door. "Oh Margaret, dear!" Come in, come in. Today we have a lot to do!"Margaret went into the living room with her future mother-in-law. A lot of wedding mags, fabric samples, and flower catalogs were in it. She saw something that made her heart beat faster. Everything she had ever dreamed of came true."Where's Carson?" Margaret looked around and asked. She was a little upset that she hadn't seen her fiancé much lately.The mother of carson waved her hand. "Oh, you guys know. He talked about work. Don't worry, though—we can do this without him.Marg
"Are you sure about this, Alice?" Emma asked, her voice echoing in the empty apartment as she struggled with a heavy box.Alice paused, looking around the bare living room. It was small, nothing like the grand rooms of the MacPherson mansion. The paint was peeling in one corner, and she could hear the neighbors arguing through the thin walls. But it was hers. A new start. "I'm sure, Em," she said, trying to sound confident. "I need to do this. For me and for the baby."Emma set down the box with a thud. "I still can't believe that rich jerk just dumped you like that. Who does he think he is?"Alice felt a familiar surge of anger and hurt. "He's Carson MacPherson," she said bitterly. "He can do whatever he wants, apparently."The sisters worked in silence for a while, unpacking Alice's meager belongings. The apartment was in a decent part of Manchester, not too far from where their mom lived. It wasn't London, but that was the point. Alice needed to get away from everything - and every
"Alice, wake up! I've got amazing news!" Emma's excited voice came through the phone, Disrupting Alice from her sleep.Alice cleaned her eyes, glancing at the clock. It was barely 7 AM. "Em? What's going on?""Dad's properties! They've been released! Can you believe it?"Alice sat up straight, suddenly wide awake. "What? Are you serious?""Yes! Mom just got the call from the lawyer. Everything's been cleared. The house, the car, even Dad's old business!"Alice felt a flash of relief wash over her. For years, her family had struggled after her father's death and the seizure of their properties. This news changed everything."That's... that's incredible," Alice said, her mind racing. "How's Mom taking it?""She's crying happy tears," Emma said. "You should see her, Alice. I haven't seen her smile like this in years."Alice got ready for the day, her mind was dancing with the news. Her father's properties being released meant her mother and siblings would be okay financially. It was one
"Carson, darling, are you listening to me?" Margaret's voice cut through Carson's thoughts like a knife.Carson blinked, forcing himself to focus on his fiancée. They were sitting in the MacPherson mansion's grand dining room, surrounded by wedding samples and catalogues. "Sorry, what were you saying?"Margaret frowned, her perfectly manicured nails tapping on the table. "I was asking if you preferred the ivory or the eggshell napkins for the reception."Carson stared at the two nearly identical pieces of fabric. He couldn't see any difference, and honestly, he couldn't bring himself to care. "Whichever you think is best," he said, trying to sound interested.Margaret beamed, clearly pleased to have the decision left to her. "I think the ivory. It'll match the tablecloths better."As Margaret chattered on about table settings and flower arrangements, Carson's mind wandered again. He couldn't stop thinking about Alice. Where was she now? Was she okay? How was the baby?"Carson!" Margar
"What do you mean the venue burned down?" Carson's voice echoed through the MacPherson mansion.Margaret's face was pale as she clutched her phone. "The wedding planner just called. There was a fire at the country club last night. It's... it's gone, Carson."Carson blinked, trying to process the news. Their wedding venue,the biggest cathedral known as the exclusive Hillcrest Country Club, had been destroyed in a freak accident. "Well, can't we just find another place?" he asked, surprised by the relief he felt at this unexpected delay.Margaret shook her head frantically. "You don't understand! Hillcrest was perfect. It's where all the best weddings happen. We can't just go anywhere!"As Margaret dissolved into tears, Carson's mother uneasily walked into the room. "What's all this commotion about?"After they explained the situation, Mrs. MacPherson pursed her lips. "Well, this is unfortunate. But perhaps it's for the best. We can take more time to plan the perfect wedding.""More ti
"I'm sorry, but we're looking for someone who can commit long-term," the manager said, his eyes flicking to Alice's obvious baby bump.Alice felt her heart sink. This was the third job interview this week, and it had ended just like the others. She forced a smile. "I understand. Thank you for your time."As she walked out of the small bookshop, Alice blinked back tears. She'd thought this job would be perfect - part-time hours, a quiet environment. But apparently, being pregnant made her unemployable.Her phone buzzed in her pocket. It was Emma. "Hey, sis! How'd the interview go?"Alice sighed, sitting down on a nearby bench. "Same as the others. They took one look at my belly and suddenly the position was filled.""Oh, Alice," Emma said, her voice full of sympathy. "I'm so sorry. Want me to come over? We could watch a movie, eat some ice cream?"Alice smiled despite herself. "Thanks, Em. But I think I just want to be alone for a bit."After hanging up, Alice sat on the bench for a wh
"Carson, darling, what do you think of this one?" Margaret's voice echoed through the vast, empty hall.Carson looked up from his phone, barely glancing at the ornate room around them. "It's fine," he muttered.Margaret frowned, putting her hands on her hips. "That's what you said about the last three places. Are you even paying attention?"Carson sighed, shoving his phone in his pocket. "Look, Margaret, they're all big rooms with fancy decorations. Pick whichever one you like best."The wedding planner, a thin woman named Evelyn, cleared her throat nervously. "Perhaps we could take a closer look at the ballroom? It has a lovely view of the gardens."As Margaret followed Evelyn, chattering excitedly about flower arrangements and lighting, Carson hung back. He pulled out his phone again, scrolling through his messages. There was one from a pretty bartender he'd met last week. She wanted to meet up again.Carson smirked, quickly typing out a reply. He'd have to be careful, though. The w
Nine months seemed to fly by for Alice and Carson. They spent the time getting ready for their new baby, turning the guest room into a pretty nursery with soft yellow walls and cute animal pictures. Charlie was excited to be a big brother and would often talk to Alice's growing tummy.On a warm spring day, Alice felt the first signs that the baby was coming. Carson rushed her to the hospital, his heart beating fast with excitement and worry. After many hours of waiting and Alice being very brave, they finally heard the sound they had been waiting for - the cry of their new baby."It's a girl!" the doctor said, holding up the tiny, pink bundle.Alice and Carson looked at each other with tears in their eyes. Their baby girl was here, and she was perfect."What should we name her?" Carson asked softly, as he held his daughter for the first time.Alice smiled, remembering a name they had talked about. "How about Hope? Because she brings us so much hope and joy."Carson nodded, his eyes sh
After their wonderful honeymoon, Alice and Carson came back home feeling happy and relaxed. They were excited to start their new life together in their new house in London. It was a pretty house with white walls and a red door. The best part was the big garden in the back, perfect for their little son Charlie to play in.On their first day in the new house, Alice and Carson walked through each room, holding hands and smiling. Charlie toddled along behind them, his little eyes wide as he looked at his new home."What do you think, buddy?" Carson asked, picking Charlie up. "Do you like our new house?"Charlie giggled and pointed at the big windows. "Big!" he said, one of the few words he knew.Alice laughed. "That's right, sweetie. The windows are big. And look at the garden!" She carried Charlie to the back door to show him the green grass and colorful flowers.For the next few weeks, Alice and Carson were busy making the house feel like home. They painted the walls in pretty colors, h
After a long flight, Alice and Carson finally arrived at their honeymoon destination. It was a beautiful island with white sandy beaches and clear blue water. As they stepped out of the airport, they felt the warm sun on their faces and smelled the salty sea air."We're here!" Alice said excitedly, squeezing Carson's hand.Carson grinned at her. "Let the honeymoon begin, Mrs. MacPherson!"They took a taxi to their hotel, which was right on the beach. When they walked into their room, they gasped. It was gorgeous, with a big bed, a balcony overlooking the ocean, and even a little hot tub."Oh, Carson, it's perfect!" Alice said, rushing to the balcony to look at the view.Carson came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist. "Not as perfect as you," he said, kissing her cheek.They spent the rest of that day relaxing by the hotel pool, sipping fruity drinks with little umbrellas in them. They were both tired from the long trip, but too excited to sleep.The next morning, they
After the beautiful ceremony in the garden, everyone went to a big party to celebrate Alice and Carson's marriage. The party was at a fancy hotel nearby. When Alice and Carson arrived, they were amazed at how pretty everything looked.The room was decorated with white and pink flowers, just like at the wedding. There were twinkling lights everywhere, making the room look magical. Big round tables were set up for all the guests, with white tablecloths and shiny silverware.As Alice and Carson walked in, everyone stood up and clapped. They felt so special, like a prince and princess in a fairy tale. They couldn't stop smiling as they made their way to the main table at the front of the room.Once everyone was seated, it was time for dinner. The food was delicious, just as Alice and Carson had hoped when they picked it out. There was the yummy chicken dish they both loved, and the tasty vegetable pasta. For the guests who didn't eat meat, there was a special vegetarian meal too.Alice an
The sun was just starting to come up when Alice opened her eyes. For a moment, she wondered why she felt so excited. Then she remembered - it was her wedding day! She sat up in bed, a big smile on her face.There was a soft knock on her door. "Alice? Are you awake?" It was her mom, Sarah."Yes, Mom! Come in!" Alice called out.Sarah came in, followed by Carson's sisters - Karen, Mia, Ava, and Alexis. They were all smiling and looking very happy."It's time to get ready!" Karen said, clapping her hands. "We have a bride to make beautiful!"Alice laughed. "Okay, okay! I'm ready!"They all went downstairs to have a quick breakfast. Alice was too excited to eat much, but her mom made her have some toast and fruit."You need energy for your big day," Sarah said, patting Alice's hand.After breakfast, it was time to start getting ready. They went to Alice's room, where her beautiful white dress was hanging up."Oh, Alice," Mia sighed. "Your dress is so pretty!"Alice smiled, running her han
Alice and Carson were very busy getting ready for their big day. They had picked a pretty garden for their wedding. It had lots of green grass, colorful flowers, and big trees. When they first saw it, they both knew it was perfect.Alice's mom, Sarah, was so happy to help with the plans. She and Alice's sisters, Emma and Lily, spent many days talking about all the little details. They looked at lots of magazines and websites to get ideas."What kind of flowers do you want, Alice?" Emma asked one day. They were sitting in Alice's living room, surrounded by pictures of different flowers.Alice thought for a moment. "I like roses," she said. "But I also like daisies. They're so happy and bright.""Why not have both?" Lily suggested. "We could have roses for the fancy parts and daisies for the fun parts."Alice smiled. "That's a great idea! Carson likes both of those flowers too."They decided on white roses for the serious parts of the wedding, like the ceremony. For the party after, the
A few weeks after the trial, Alice was feeling much better. The bad memories were starting to fade, and she was looking forward to good things again. One morning, Carson came to her with a big smile on his face."Alice, my love," he said, "I think it's time we started planning our wedding again. What do you think?"Alice's face lit up. "Really? You still want to marry me after everything that's happened?"Carson hugged her tight. "Of course I do. I love you more than ever. Nothing could change that."Alice felt so happy. She had been worried that all the bad stuff might have changed things between them. But Carson's love was as strong as ever."Okay," she said, smiling. "Let's do it. Let's plan our wedding."But first, the MacPhersons wanted to talk to Alice. They asked her to come to their big house for dinner. Alice was a little nervous, but Carson held her hand and told her it would be okay.When they got to the house, Mr. and Mrs. MacPherson were waiting for them. They looked very
A few days after Alice's rescue, the police were still working hard to understand everything that had happened. They talked to many people and looked at lots of clues. One day, a police officer came to see Alice and Carson at the hospital."Miss Smit," the officer said, "we need to talk to you about something important. We found out that someone else was involved in your kidnapping."Alice sat up in her bed, holding Carson's hand tight. "Who?" she asked.The officer looked serious. "It's Margaret, Mr. MacPherson's ex-fiancée. We have proof that she helped plan your kidnapping with Maxwell."Alice and Carson were shocked. They knew Margaret didn't like Alice, but they never thought she would do something so bad."Are you sure?" Carson asked, his voice shaky.The officer nodded. "Yes, we're sure. We found messages between her and Maxwell. She told him where to find Alice and helped him plan everything."Alice felt sick. She remembered seeing Margaret at the warehouse after her rescue. N
Maxwell paced back and forth in the old warehouse, looking at his watch every few minutes. Alice sat in the corner, tied up, her once-pretty wedding dress now dirty and torn. She watched Maxwell, feeling scared and sad for him, wondering how her friend had become this scary, desperate man.There was a knock at the door. Maxwell's head jerked up, his eyes wide. "Finally," he muttered, hurrying to open it.An old man in priest clothes stood there, looking nervous and confused. "Mr. Johnson? I'm Father Thomas. I got your... strange request."Maxwell pulled the priest inside, quickly closing the door. "Yes, thank you for coming, Father. Like I said, this is a special situation."Father Thomas's eyes got big when he saw the room - the dirty warehouse, the tied-up woman in a wedding dress, the jumpy man who had called him. "Young man, what's going on here?" he asked, his voice shaky."Father, please help me!" Alice cried out. "He took me. He's trying to make me marry him!"The priest steppe