The Outsider's Vows

Avery stood up, her arms already halfway extended in anticipation of a hug. But Tiffany raised a hand, refusing the embrace. “Hey, we’re in public. We can’t hug here,” Tiffany said. Avery's smile faltered slightly, disappointment flickering across her face. “But girls hug in public all the time,” she replied, trying to mask her hurt. “I know I’m not just any girl to you, and I know it isn’t going to be a regular hug. Let’s save it for when we’re alone, okay?” Tiffany suggested, motioning toward the empty seat across from Avery. With a deflated sigh, Avery settled into the seat opposite Tiffany, watching her order a drink with a practised ease that felt all too foreign now. “So, how was your day? How did you spend it?” Avery asked, forcing a smile. Tiffany took a moment to consider before replying, “Oh, I was at home all day. Although, I did visit my mom at the hospital. How about you?” A wave of sadness washed over Avery upon hearing Tiffany's response. It pierced her heart, sca

It was a Saturday evening, and the atmosphere in the room was thick with anticipation as Avery and her mother sat around the elegantly set dinner table. Tonight marked a significant occasion, and despite Avery's internal resistance, there was no escaping it. Her "perfect match" was on his way. Avery had begrudgingly allowed herself to be transformed into a vision of elegance. The black dress she wore hugged her slender figure, the intricate lace details adding an air of sophistication. The capped sleeves and a soft V-neckline left just enough skin, while her soft waves of hair framed her face, enhancing her natural beauty. Every part of her appearance had been perfected—perhaps too perfect for a meeting she had no interest in. Her mom beamed with pride, but Avery remained indifferent, her thoughts far from the evening’s purpose. Her phone, confiscated by her mother to ensure full attention, left her with nothing but her growing impatience. She glanced around the room, irritated tha

David's cocky grin spread across his face as he boasted, "The ladies call me the Adonis of the town." Avery bit her lip, fighting back a laugh. "You really think that highly of yourself, don't you?" "Why, of course! A heartthrob, a dreamboat, the epitome of male perfection. Can you blame them?" David gestured dramatically at his reflection in the car window. "Hours at the gym, meticulous grooming, and natural charm that only I possess-it's all me." "Wow, such dedication," Avery mocked. "Well, Valerie, when you're blessed with the looks of a Greek god, it's a full-time job.” "It’s Avery," she corrected, frowning. "Of course, Valerie," he replied absentmindedly as the car came to a stop. Staff opened the back doors for them to step out. Avery struggled slightly due to her dress, but managed to make her way out. She took in the sight of the magnificent mansion before her, pretty impressed. "This is your house?" "No, it’s not," he said, taking off his suit jacket and handing it to

"What the...?!" Avery exclaimed."What is it now?" David frowned."Do you not see anything wrong here?""Answering a question with a question... that's all I see wrong here, and don't ever repeat that," David warned."Why is your house so... so messy? What on earth? Don't you have a maid, cleaning lady, or something? Don't you do chores?!" Avery said disgustedly."I do chores, and there's nothing wrong with my house," he defended."Really? The couches are out of place and covered in what appears to be cookie crumbs. There are slices of bread on a plate on the coffee table next to a jar of jam and a can of beer. Who the hell eats bread, jam, and beer? And why do you have boxers and t-shirts on the couch?" Avery was infuriated."Listen here, Valerie...""It's Avery.""This is my house, and I have the right to do whatever I want here...""And by that, you mean you have every right to let your house become a mess?" Avery interrupted him."The living room is only like this because I was wo

"Right on time," Jennifer said, flashing a warm smile as she swung the door open to welcome Avery. The two friends immediately embraced, feeling the excitement bubble between them.They settled down at the center table, adorned with a delicate white tablecloth. Jennifer carefully poured liquor into the shot glasses, her eyes glinting mischievously. "Now beware. This liquor is not for the faint of heart," she warned, her voice laced with anticipation.Avery smirked confidently. "I'm ready for the challenge," she declared, her eyes locked with Jennifer's."Cheers!" they exclaimed in unison, clinking their glasses together before downing the shots. Their expressions quickly morphed, teeth clenching tightly as the fiery liquid crept through their bodies. Their eyes involuntarily squeezed shut as the intense burning sensation overwhelmed them, causing their faces to contort in discomfort. Jennifer and Avery quickly placed their shot glasses back on the table, exhaling sharply and excha