Chapter 7

The sun had barely risen when Evelyn awoke on the morning of her wedding day. She blinked at the unfamiliar darkness of her room, her internal clock disrupted by the excitement and anxiety of the big day. Her private driver was scheduled to pick her up in just a few hours, and the entire process of preparation loomed ahead like a marathon she was unsure she could complete.

Evelyn rose from bed, her mind a whirl of apprehensions. The thought of spending her life with a man she barely knew, who was now to be her husband, weighed heavily on her. She was nervous about the future and the impact of this marriage on her dreams of traveling and pursuing her passion for painting. Yet, today was about appearances, about presenting herself as the epitome of beauty for a ceremony that felt more like an obligation than a celebration.

The chauffeur's car arrived punctually, a sleek black limousine that gleamed in the morning sun. Evelyn slipped into the back seat, her nerves coiling tighter with each passing minute. The drive was a blur of city streets and quiet anticipation until they reached the exclusive salon where the stylists and beauty consultants awaited her arrival.

As she stepped out of the limousine, a flurry of activity greeted her. The salon was bustling with activity, a hive of professionals eager to transform her into the perfect bride. Evelyn was escorted to a plush chair where a team of stylists was ready to begin their work. The room was filled with the soft hum of conversation and the rustle of fabric.

"Good morning, Evelyn!" one of the stylists greeted her cheerfully. "We're going to make you look absolutely stunning today."

Evelyn offered a weak smile in return. Her body was already feeling the strain of early rising and sleepless nights. She sighed as the team began their work, starting with a full-body treatment that included meticulous waxing and a deep moisturizing routine to ensure her skin was silky smooth. Each touch of the estheticians' hands was gentle and professional, but the process felt endless to Evelyn.

As the stylists moved on to her face, applying layers of makeup and carefully sculpting her features, Evelyn struggled to stay awake. Her eyes were heavy, and her thoughts drifted. The reality of her situation began to set in. How would her life change with this marriage? Would she still be able to pursue her dreams, or would she be relegated to a role she never wanted?

Her internal monologue was interrupted as the team shifted to styling her hair. They worked in careful silence, their movements precise as they crafted a sophisticated updo that complemented her features. Evelyn glanced at the clock on the wall, noting that hours had passed since she first arrived.

Finally, the moment came to try on the wedding dress. The stylists ushered her into a private fitting room where the dress—a masterpiece of lace, satin, and delicate embroidery—was displayed on a mannequin. Evelyn's breath caught in her throat as she took in the intricate details. The dress was breathtaking, its elegance far surpassing anything she had ever imagined.

One of the stylists carefully helped her into the gown, their hands guiding her gently. As the final touches were made, Evelyn was led to a full-length mirror. When she saw her reflection, she was taken aback. The dress was perfect, fitting her like it was tailored specifically for her. The bodice was adorned with delicate lace, and the full skirt flowed gracefully to the floor. The sight left her speechless, and tears welled in her eyes.

"Is that really me?" Evelyn asked, her voice trembling with emotion.

The room was filled with appreciative murmurs from the stylists. "Yes, it's you," one of them said with a smile. "You look absolutely stunning."

Another stylist began to shower Evelyn with compliments. "This dress was made for you. The way it complements your figure and the way you're glowing—it's truly magical."

Evelyn's cheeks flushed with embarrassment, and she couldn't help but smile. The stylist's praise made her feel beautiful, a feeling she hadn't experienced so intensely before.

"Now, let's add the veil," one of the stylists said, holding it delicately. "Are you ready?"

Evelyn hesitated, her nerves bubbling up. "I'm not sure," she admitted. "I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed."

The stylist paused, sensing her anxiety. "It's completely normal to feel this way. It's a big day, and it's okay to be nervous. Do you want to talk about it?"

The other stylists chimed in, their voices soothing and encouraging. "Think of this as a new chapter in your life," one said. "It's going to be an adventure, and you're going to look amazing every step of the way."

One stylist, with a mischievous glint in her eye, decided to lighten the mood. "You know, on my wedding night, I was so nervous, but my husband made it incredibly special. He had this way of making me feel loved and cherished. Maybe you could use some tips to make your wedding night memorable?"

Evelyn's eyes widened in surprise. "What kind of tips?"

The stylist leaned in, lowering her voice conspiratorially. "Well, let's just say that creating a romantic atmosphere with candles and soft music can really set the mood. And don't be afraid to take the lead and be bold. Sometimes, a little playful teasing can make all the difference."

Evelyn couldn't help but giggle, her nervousness momentarily forgotten. "That sounds… interesting."

Another stylist joined in, her tone light-hearted. "And if you want to really impress him, consider wearing something special underneath your dress. A little something sexy can make the night even more exciting."

Evelyn laughed, her cheeks flushing with color. "I'll keep that in mind."

The stylists continued to share their stories and tips, each one contributing their own piece of advice. The atmosphere in the room became more relaxed and jovial, with Evelyn's laughter echoing through the space. The once tense and nervous bride was now glowing with a newfound sense of excitement and anticipation.

As the session drew to a close, Evangeline and Erin arrived at the salon. Their eyes widened in awe when they saw Evelyn. The transformation was stunning—Evelyn was a vision of grace and elegance.

Evangeline approached her, a rare smile on her lips. "Evelyn, you look absolutely gorgeous. I have to admit, you've surpassed all my expectations."

Erin, however, could barely mask her jealousy. She looked at Evelyn with a mixture of admiration and resentment. "You look great," she said through gritted teeth. "But don't think this changes anything. I still believe you'll be miserable."

An hour later, with the final touches complete, a black limousine awaited them outside. Evelyn thanked the stylists profusely, her eyes twinkling with gratitude. "Thank you so much for everything. I'll definitely remember your advice for tonight," she said with a playful wink.

The stylists laughed and wished her well, their encouragement and camaraderie leaving Evelyn feeling buoyed. She then joined Evangeline and Erin in the limousine. The atmosphere inside was stiff and awkward, each of them lost in their thoughts as they made their way to the wedding venue.

The cityscape outside the window seemed to blur together, mirroring Evelyn's turbulent emotions. Today was the beginning of a new chapter in her life, one filled with uncertainty but also with the hope that perhaps, despite everything, it could lead to something meaningful and fulfilling.