Three months.

That's how long it's been since I was expected to die.

That's how long it's been since Damien saved me from the fire since I was transformed, reformulated, and no longer the damaged lady my stepmother and stepsister had struggled to kill.

One moment I was having a drink with my so-called newly found friend or foe, and the next there was an explosion. The fire was catching up so fast and I had accepted death at that moment. Maybe Mom wanted to take me away from this world of haters and evil doers. I had accepted that, but the reason she chose fire baffled me. But I suddenly didn't see Abby again and that time I knew it was a set up.

I should have noticed the way the bar was strangely quiet, and it was just the two of us. When the fire was nearly catching up with me and it's smoke was already choking that it became difficult to breathe, I saw faintly two figures at the entrance of the room. My two nemesis- Vivienne and Amanda. I saw them laughing before darkness took over.

Now, I stand before the mirror, no longer Aria Donovan, the unimportant girl of a deceased mother.

I am something else entirely.

The glow of the vanity lights drops shadows over my face, exposing the smartness of my features. My former dull eyes now carry something incomprehensible, something Damien nurtured in me-power. All thanks to him.

The silk of my gown whiffs over my skin as I turn slightly, its impact grounding me. The gown boldly embraces my curves with ivory satin, while soft lace outlines my collarbones and the sleeves float like drizzle.

The bodice hugs my waist and flows into a train that pools at my feet like moonlight.

A wedding gown.

Mine to be precise.

I press my fingers against the marble surface of the vanity, enjoying its calmness, anchoring myself to the realism of what I'm about to do. The woman in the mirror is new-graceful, poised, a picture of confusion cloaked in beauty.

I close my eyes, and the memory strikes like a sword.

The fire. The smoke hurting my lungs. The voices faded as my consciousness slid off. Then, firm arms, lifting me, carrying me through the flames. A deep voice, one that had never sounded far, now serious and commanding. And suddenly, blackness.

When I woke, I was in Damien's home. He had rescued me. He had offered me shelter.

He had transformed me. He saw the way I was damaged and dealt with as if my presence was an inconvenience, and for some reason, that made him act. He refined me, tore off the weak scraps of who I used to be, and in their place, something unbreakable was built.

And now, I am returning the favour. Saving him from marrying a devil in disguise and getting my revenge. Even though he feels reluctant about this.

Today is Viviene's wedding day.

Today is expected to be the day she weds Damien.

A knock at the door draws me out of my thoughts.

I inhale deeply, easing invisible wrinkles from my robe. My pulse is calm and my courage firm.

"Come in," I say, my tone calm.

The door opens, and Damien steps inside.

For a minute, he's mute.

His views travel over me gently, tracing every detail of my gown. The way it hugs my body. The contrast of ivory against my black hair, which is swept up in a sophisticated style, delicate strands outlining my face.

His lips part as if finding words he resolves against speaking.

Then, eventually, a simple remark:

"You look..." He holds himself. His jaw stiffens. He lets out through his nose, unreadable as ever.

Pretty. I know that's what he wanted to say. But Damien doesn't offer compliments easily.

Instead, his gaze hardens. "You're going through with this."

I meet his stare, determined. "Yes."

His palms slide into the pockets of his tailored black suit. The texture spreads across his broad shoulders, the crisp white shirt underneath unbuttoned just enough to hint at the rich skin beneath. He looks like power, like control, the one man who has unintentionally given me the weapons to take back what was snatched from me.

"I told you before, Aria," his tone is low and calculated. "I don't think we should push through with this plan."

"We agreed on this already," I oppose, walking closer. "This is revenge."

His face remains stoic, but I don't miss the slight tick in his jaw.

"I need this, Damien." My expression softens, but the steel beneath it stands. "This is the only way I know how to ruin them."

A muscle in his cheek tightens.

For a moment, he speaks nothing.

Then-

"What if you're making a mistake marrying me."

I sway my head lightly, examining him. "Then let me make it. This is the only revenge I know of."

His gaze gleams and something incomprehensible plays through his face.

I take one final step, closing the distance between us. "You saved me before," I mutter, my tone barely above a sigh. "Save me again. And I'm saving you too in return."

His sigh snags, so soft I almost miss it.

I don't break eye contact with him.

Moments pass. The air between us swells, charged with something I can't identify.

Then-

He breathes, running a hand through his hair.

"Damn it."

Hesitation, frustration, and something else-something about resigned gleams across his face.

I realize I've won.

"Fine," he replies, the phrase strapped with something intense.

A triumphant smile curves my lips.

I stride back, turning toward the mirror one last time, drinking at the sight of myself, a woman who is about to seize everything from those who tried to end her.

Damien examines me. I feel his gaze, heavy on me.

"Shall we?" His tone is gentle and composed.

I turn to see his palm held out.

I place mine in his, our fingers brushing, his warmth oozing into my skin.

A shiver goes down my spine.

We walk toward the door, step by step, deliberate march toward the ruin of the people who tried to bury me.

The driver is already waiting outside. The black limousine glows in the car park.

We enter and the door clicks shut; I breathe softly, a smirk forming on my lips.

Viviene is unaware of what's coming.

Damien sits next to me, silent, tapping his fingers on his knee.

I peek at him, my voice calm but firm.

"Viviene has no idea what's coming for her."

And as the car pulls off, a storm of revenge brews.

And I am at its centre.

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.

(Viviene's pov)

Shock. Surprise. Pain.

I'm not sure what's going on inside me, but I can tell it's not happiness. Just a little while ago, I felt so happy, and now I'm feeling really upset and mad.

Clasps in a shimmering white wedding gown is Aria, that b*tch who was supposed to be dead.

"Mom" I gaze at my mother only to see that she is as shocked as I am. How is Aria still living? We left her inside a burning building, so how?

(Aria's pov)

I descend the car with grace, and I feel a million and one stares, trying to bore a hole through my body. Every time those camera lights shine, I realize how much my life has transformed; I'm definitely in the limelight.

I'm not Aria Donovan anymore, the one everyone used to walk all over; I've risen from the ashes!

I take a look at the red carpet. The bride is meant to walk through this carpet with her father, but I am with Damien, my husband-to-be. I did not consider it a loss as I held onto him tightly before stepping on the red carpet.

"Oh my gosh! What is happening? Two brides? Is this some sort of joke?" I hear someone say in the crowd.

"I think not? Another one counter. "I think the one with Damien is the real bride, if not, she wouldn't be walking arms in arms with him. See how shocked Viviene is, I'm sure she wasn't expecting this?"

"Hah!. She earned it; just a little while ago, she was strutting around like the bride, throwing us crazy looks and acting all high and mighty. Who would have thought her karma would hit her quicker than a flash of lightning? She's so proud. I don't like her." Another person says.

"She is so delusional, even wearing a wedding gown, on another person's wedding day? How could their family be so daft not to see that Damien Calloway wasn't even dating their second daughter like she claimed." The whispers go on and on, and I can hear the whispers from the surrounding socialites.

It's funny, though, some couple of days ago, these people were all fawning at Viviene and would have joined her in ruining my life if she had called for backup, but now, they all changed tone faster than flipping a book.

Human beings are fickle!

Of course, their fickleness is of no concern to me as I walk through the red carpet, my eyes scanning the venue looking for my sweet step-sister Viviene.

Halfway to the priests, I feel a dangerous stare like that of a venomous snake crawling through my neck. I turn slightly and see Viviene, in her pretty wedding gown glaring at me like a predator.

Her frustrated and venomous appearance is as sweet as honey to my soul, I give her a small smile and a mouth pout to her, "This is just the beginning!"

Yes! This truly is just the beginning, I will make her life and that of her heartless mother miserable because they took everything from me. My mother, my happy family tried to kill me twice.

Considering the evil they had done, I am completely a saint for just taking her groom on their wedding day and of truth, the groom has nothing like feelings for her! Their wedding is just a business deal.

Damien and I are on the altar now, not even minding their venomous views on us. Cameras are still flashing outside, and gossip is flying around the venue. Damien's parents are already dead, and his uncles have nothing of a close relationship with him; they would rather attend his funeral than his wedding.

His grandmother, the only person who would have been here for him, is seriously ill and in no condition to attend a wedding.

Looking at Damien, it dawns on me that we have many things in common; we both have no one to celebrate us on this day; it's just us!

The priest starts the reading of the vows, preaching about marriage and the sacredness of marriage. The priest was particularly enthusiastic about the sentence, one wife as he kept glancing to Viviene while he was speaking.

I glanced at Viviene and saw that she was almost losing her cool, but Rachael, the great witch, was holding her down.

"He is soon going to be mine," I mouthed again, this time, taking Damien's hands into my arms.

The part where the priest said the lines, "If you have a reason why this couple should not be together, speak or forever hold your peace," just came immediately. I provoked Viviene, and without thinking, she shouted.

Instantly, everyone turned to her; she was also dressed in a wedding gown, so she was already easy to spot.

Hearing Viviene's voice, I screamed in my mind." Finally!" I had been waiting for her to come out and speak. I had started believing that she wasn't at a point, knowing how much Dad hated being in the headlines. I aimed to humiliate her; just crashing the wedding wasn't enough. I wanted her to experience the love of her life rejecting her directly and brutally.

I confidently turned around and confronted Viviene. "Why sister, what is the problem?" I said, my voice gentle and full of innocence.

"Aria, you jerk!" Viviene yelled my name with a ton of anger as she shoved Racheal aside and marched to the middle of the hall.

"It's my wedding day, and everyone knows it! How could you just take the groom away like that? How can you even call yourself my sister?"

She wanted to win people over, but deep down, she still thought about getting back with Damien despite what most folks believed. Too bad that all the socialites were already against Viviene and no one wanted to cross Damien, so they just acted like she wasn't there.

"Damien, what are you doing with her? You love me, don't you remember?" Viviene turned to Damien and cried out.

I looked at Damien, honestly curious about how he'd respond to Viviene. He did this because I kind of forced him, after all.

"Viviene, the deal between our grandparents was for me to marry the eldest daughter of the Donovan house, you are not the eldest daughter, are you?" Damien gives Viviene a disapproving look as he was done but I felt like the fool Instead.

Contract? Grandparents? Eldest daughter?

What is this? Does this mean that Damien is my rightful husband?

I look at Damien in shock!