Altered Invitations, Separated Fates

Three days before the wedding, Blake Foster replaced every invitation.

The brides name changed from Vivian Shaw to Lucia Lane.

Lucia Lane.

The woman who had abandoned him alone outside an operating room three years ago, signed a breakup agreement, and left the country.

I thought I had misread it.

I checked three times.

Blake stood by the door, his eyes red, his voice calm.

She has late-stage brain cancer. Four months, at most.

She said the greatest regret of her life was never getting to wear a wedding dress with me.

Vivian, I just want someone whos dying to leave this world in peace. After the wedding, Ill come back.

I pointed at the newly printed invitations, my voice trembling.

So youre using our wedding, our hotel, and my guests to marry another woman?

He was silent for a long time.

In the end, he said only one sentence.

You wouldnt understand. She skipped surgery for me. Thats why it progressed to late-stage.

I stopped speaking.

I watched him take the wedding rings from the pocket of my gown.

After he left, I stood alone in the empty room for a long time.

Finally, I redesigned the invitation.

Only this time, the grooms name was no longer his.

Vivian, replace the mattress in the master bedroom. Lucia cant sleep on anything this firm.

Blakes voice came from the bedroom, matter-of-fact and faintly impatient.

I locked the freshly printed new invitations into the study drawer.

Then I walked to the master bedroom door.

Several movers were struggling to drag out the mattress I had custom-ordered from Italy half a year ago.

Blake had severe neurasthenia. To help him sleep better, I compared more than a dozen brands before choosing this one with the strongest support.

Now it had been casually dumped in the hallway, covered in dust.

Lucia leaned against the bay window. Her face was indeed pale, but there was a careless smile tugging at her mouth.

Vivian, Im so sorry.

She coughed twice and pressed a hand to her chest, gasping.

My body is getting worse. If the bed is even a little firm, my bones hurt so badly I cant stand it.

Ill have to trouble you for a few days. Once Im dead, this wedding home will still be yours.

Blake immediately walked over and patted her back with practiced familiarity, his eyes full of distress.

Dont say that. The doctor said if you rest properly, you can still live a few more months.

Then he turned to me, his tone instantly cold.

Vivian Shaw, why are you standing there? Come help.

I looked at the way he protected Lucia and found it almost funny.

Three days ago, he had been holding my waist on that bed, talking about our honeymoon.

Now, he wanted to place another woman in our wedding home.

Even on our wedding bed.

I stepped forward and helped the movers push the old mattress out with one hand.

No need to replace the mattress.

I looked at Blake calmly.

Ill sleep in the guest room.

Blake froze for a second, as if he hadnt expected me to be so easy to deal with.

In his imagination, I should have argued with him like yesterday, demanding to know why he was destroying our wedding.

But now, I only felt tired.

A flash of triumph passed through Lucias eyes. Then she quickly put on a frightened expression.

How can that be? Vivian, this is your wedding home. How can I take the master bedroom?

Blake, I should go. Ill just make do under a bridge for a few days. Dont hurt your relationship because of me.

As she spoke, she pretended to walk out, only for her body to go weak and fall toward Blake.

Blake hurriedly caught her, then turned and glared at me.

Vivian Shaw, cant you be a little more generous?

Lucia is already this sick. Who are you showing that cold face to?

She missed surgery back then because of you.

Because of me?

Three years ago, Blake had been in a car accident and needed a blood transfusion.

Lucia took the two-million-dollar check from the Lane family and flew abroad overnight. She never mentioned surgery.

I was the one who donated almost more blood than legally allowed and stayed by him for three days and nights.

Now, with one sentence about missing treatment for him, Lucia had cleansed herself into the tragic heroine.

And I, the one who had truly saved him, had become the villain.

Im not showing any face.

I looked at Blake, my voice without a ripple.

She can have the master bedroom. Ill go pack.

With that, I stopped looking at them and went straight into the walk-in closet to take out my suitcase.

I didnt have many clothes. Two cases were packed quickly.

After settling Lucia, Blake came in and saw the suitcases on the floor. His brows tightened.

What are you doing? Packing this much? Are you moving out?

Just some clutter. It wont fit in the guest room.

I gave a casual answer.

He looked at me suspiciously for a moment, then sighed and came over, trying to take my hand.

Vivian, I know this is unfair to you.

But Lucia really is pitiful. She has no family in the country.

After the wedding is over, Ill take her to a care facility. Then you and I can get our marriage certificate. Okay?

I avoided his hand and zipped the suitcase shut.

Marriage certificate?

He probably forgot that our original registration date was tomorrow.

Do whatever you want.

I pulled the suitcase toward the door.

Blake called after me.

Dont forget tomorrows fitting. Lucia couldnt reserve a suitable gown, so let her borrow yours first.

My steps stopped.

That wedding gown was designed by me, for the purpose of marrying him.

I had drawn the design myself and found a tailor to stitch it by hand, one needle at a time.

I turned back and looked at his righteous face.

Fine.

After leaving the apartment, I threw my luggage into the trunk.

Sitting in the drivers seat, I dialed a number.

The call connected after two rings. A steady, clear male voice came through.

What? Miss Shaw finally decided to check up on me?

I leaned wearily against the seat and closed my eyes.

Warren, are you ready for the wedding the day after tomorrow?

Warren let out a soft laugh on the other end.

As long as the groom isnt anyone but me, Im ready anytime.

But I need to make sure, Vivian. Youre not using me to get back at Blake, are you?

I opened my eyes and looked at my exhausted face in the rearview mirror.

No.

The invitations have already been sent to all core guests. Pullman Hall, top floor of the hotel.

Warren was silent for two seconds. When he spoke again, his tone was serious.

All right. Ill be there on time.

After hanging up, I drove to the couture bridal salon downtown.

This was where we had originally agreed to do the fitting.

As soon as I pushed open the glass door, I heard Blakes impatient voice.

Why is the waist so tight? Did you measure the size wrong?

The sales associate was anxious and sweating.

Mr. Foster, these were the measurements Miss Shaw gave six months ago. Perhaps youve become slightly more muscular recently.

Blake was wearing the hand-tailored main suit that had taken half a year to make.

The hem was embroidered with subtle, exquisite patterns. It should have fit his body perfectly.

Now the buttons were stuck at his abdomen, looking a little ridiculous.

Lucia walked out of the fitting room in the couture gown that originally belonged to me.

The gown was obviously a size too large on her, hanging loosely from her shoulders.

But as she looked at herself in the mirror, the greed in her eyes could not be hidden.

Blake, Vivians gown is really made from beautiful fabric. Its just too big.

She walked toward Blake and reached for his arm, but accidentally stepped on the train.

Rip.

A soft tearing sound.

A length of lace at the back of the gown was torn open.

The sales associate gasped and covered her mouth.

Blake froze too.

Lucia immediately pulled back her foot, lowering her head with guilt all over her face.

Im sorry, Blake. Im dizzy. I couldnt stand properly.

Was this gown very expensive? Ill pay you back but I dont have money on me right now

As she spoke, her eyes reddened.

Blake held her hand with distress and glared at the sales associate.

What are you screaming about? Its just a little torn lace. Stitch it back up.

He turned to me as I walked over, his tone carrying an order.

Vivian, perfect timing.

This suit is too tight and uncomfortable. Lucias gown is also too large.

Have the salon rush the alterations. You pay first.

I quietly looked at the torn place.

There, my and Blakes initials had once been embroidered.

For that small detail, I had called the designer overseas countless times.

Now, it looked like a torn joke.

It cant be altered.

My voice was calm.

Blakes brows furrowed deeper.

What do you mean it cant be altered? Not even if we pay extra? Vivian, are you being stingy?

Lucia is only getting married once. Cant you let her look decent?

Looking at his aggressive expression, I suddenly felt he was unbearably unfamiliar.

Three years of wholehearted devotion could not earn even a second of concern from him.

The fabric is a limited supply. Theres no extra material for alterations.

I walked to the sales associate and handed over a black card.

Pack the damaged gown and suit. Im taking them.

Blake panicked and grabbed my arm.

If you take them, what are we wearing tomorrow?

That suit was made according to my preferences. What right do you have to take it?

I shook off his hand and brushed the sleeve he had touched.

I paid for this suit in full. Since it doesnt fit you, you dont need to wear it.

As for her

I coldly glanced at the loose gown on Lucia.

She doesnt deserve to wear my wedding dress. Take it off.

Lucias face instantly turned ugly. She looked at Blake with grievance.

Blake, is Vivian angry with me? Ill take it off. At worst, I wont wear a wedding dress tomorrow

As she spoke, she began to unzip the back. Her hands trembled as if she might faint at any moment.

Blake was completely enraged. He stepped in front of Lucia.

Vivian Shaw, are you crazy? Do you have to embarrass us in front of strangers?

Its just a stupid wedding dress. Lucia wearing it is giving you face.

If you dare take the gown away today, this wedding is off.

He was certain I wouldnt dare.

For three years, whenever he used breaking up as a threat, I always gave in.

I watched the associate place the damaged gown into a garment bag.

Taking it, I turned without hesitation and walked out.

Fine.

I left him with my back.

Then its off.

Behind me came Blakes disbelieving roar.

Vivian Shaw! If you walk out that door, dont ever expect me to beg you to come back.

I opened the door and did not look back.

Once in the car, I tossed the wedding gown onto the passenger seat.

I took a photo and sent it to Warren.

Warren, the size needs some adjustment. Tailor it to your measurements.

Very soon, a reply popped up.

Vivian, remember to switch the lead wedding car to a Maybach tomorrow. Lucia isnt used to riding in a Rolls-Royce.

Looking at Blakes message, I almost laughed from anger.

He truly mistook my patience for permission to trample me.

I did not reply. I locked the screen and started the car.

Halfway down the road, Blake called.

I put him on speaker.

Why arent you replying? Where are you?

His tone still carried that lofty interrogation.

Does it matter?

I looked at the red light ahead and stepped on the brake.

Of course it matters. Lucia said she was frightened just now and has a terrible headache.

Go to the city hospital and book a specialist appointment for her. Get the imported medicine.

And stop by the private kitchen in Eastside to pick up seafood porridge. She has no appetite.

I quietly listened to his absurd demands.

Tomorrow was the wedding.

As the woman who was supposed to be the bride, I should have been confirming the wedding process and comforting elders.

Instead, my fianc was ordering me to buy medicine and porridge for his first love.

Im not going.

My voice was cold.

Blakes voice immediately rose.

Vivian Shaw, cant you even do this one thing?

Do you understand this could be life or death? If anything happens to Lucia, Ill never forgive you.

Which intersection are you at? Ill send you the location. Go there right now.

I sneered.

Blake Foster, Im your fiance, not your hired caregiver.

Whether she lives or dies has nothing to do with me.

There was a strange silence on the other end for two seconds.

Then Blakes voice came, suppressing anger.

Fine, Vivian. Very good.

Do you think I cant hold the wedding without you?

Let me tell you. If you dont show up at the church entrance on time tomorrow to greet guests, dont expect to see me ever again.

With a snap, he hung up.

Greet guests?

He actually wanted me to be the reception attendant at Lucias wedding.

I tossed my phone aside, turned the car around, and drove toward the Foster Group building.

Warrens office was on the top floor.

When I pushed the door open, he was looking down at several documents.

Hearing footsteps, he raised his head. A trace of a smile flashed in his deep eyes.

Bride-to-be. Here to inspect my work?

I tossed my car keys onto the coffee table and sat across from him.

Here to confirm tomorrows schedule.

Warren closed the file folder and leaned back in his chair.

Ive arranged everything with the hotel. Security for Pullman Hall has also been replaced with my people.

I guarantee not even one blind fly will get in.

He paused, gaze falling on my face.

What about Blake? Has he noticed yet?

I picked up the cold water on the table and took a sip.

His mind is full of Lucias brain tumor right now. He has no time for anything else.

As we spoke, my phone screen lit up.

A message from Lucia.

I opened it.

It was a photo.

Lucia sat on the wedding bed that had belonged to Blake and me, wearing that obviously oversized wedding gown.

On the nightstand were my skincare products and custom cup.

Caption:

Borrowing everything from my sister. Thank you, Vivian, for your generosity. Blake says Im the most beautiful woman in the world.

Looking at the screen, nausea rose in my stomach.

Warren noticed and walked over to glance at the screen.

He let out a cold scoff.

For a cheap little drama queen like this, Blake must be blind to treat her like treasure.

But I am curious. How does a woman with late-stage brain cancer and a headache so bad shes dying have the energy to take such pretentious photos?

I exited the chat.

I had already investigated Lucias illness.

It was just a forged medical record bought for twenty thousand.

But I did not expose it.

When people are dancing on the edge of an abyss, they hate nothing more than being interrupted.

I wanted Blake to fall from the highest place.

No need to bother with her.

I stood and smoothed my skirt.

Ive arranged the motorcade for tomorrow. Ill pick you up at eight in the morning.

Warren looked at me, then suddenly stepped forward and tucked a loose strand of hair behind my ear.

Vivian, after tomorrow, youll have no way back.

I know.

I looked into his eyes.

I never take the road back.

By the time I left Foster Group, the sky had gone completely dark.

I returned to the hotel and checked into a suite.

I had just showered when Blakes messages came again.

Not concern.

Only command after command.

Vivian, dont be late tomorrow morning.

Lucia isnt in good health and cant stand for too long. Youll need to handle the greeting and toasting process for her.

Also, she has a lot of relatives. Give up your seat at the main table.

The morning of the wedding, the whole city was covered in a thin layer of fog.

I changed into the brand-new couture handmade wedding gown Warren had prepared for me.

The fit was perfect, without a single crease.

Standing before the full-length mirror, I looked at the cool, elegant woman inside and fastened a pearl necklace around my neck.

My phone was still vibrating wildly.

When I opened the screen, dozens of messages nearly flooded the chat.

All from Blake.

Vivian, where are you? Why arent you at the hotel yet?

Lucias wedding dress is too big. Why didnt you have it altered yesterday? Are you deliberately trying to embarrass her?

Go replace the photo at the reception desk with one of me and Lucia. Hurry.

Where the hell are you? Get over here and be Lucias bridesmaid.

Looking at those words, I found them absurd.

Even now, he still believed I would come when called and leave when dismissed.

That he could step on my dignity to satisfy his ridiculous compassion.

I did not reply.

I turned off my phone and left the suite.

The Emerald Hall on the hotels second floor was the venue Blake had changed to at the last minute yesterday.

Originally, I had booked the most luxurious Pullman Hall on the top floor.

But Blake said Lucia was afraid of heights. He also said Pullman Hall was too large and made Lucias family look too few, not warm enough.

I played along and gave him Emerald Hall.

I kept Pullman Hall for myself.

When I passed the entrance to Emerald Hall, I stopped.

The doors were wide open. It was noisy inside.

On the welcome sign, the words Celebrating the Marriage of Lucia Lane and Blake Foster stung my eyes.

Although I had been prepared, seeing it in person still felt ironic.

Several shabbily dressed aunties were gathered around the dessert table, stuffing macarons into their pockets without shame.

Lucia wore the ill-fitting wedding dress and leaned against Blake, enjoying his concerned attention.

Vivian!

Lucias eyes were sharp. She was the first to see me at the door.

She straightened, adjusted her veil, and strode toward me.

The smugness on her lips could not be hidden.

You finally came. I thought you wouldnt dare show up today.

She looked me up and down, her gaze flashing with jealousy when she saw my new wedding dress. Then she changed back to that fake smile.

Oh my, isnt your gown a little too grand?

People who dont know might think youre the bride.

She patted my shoulder and lowered her voice so only we could hear.

Vivian, thank you for lending me your husband.

The man you raised for three years looks so handsome in formalwear. Tonight, Ill experience him properly on your behalf.

I quietly watched her performance, my gaze like I was looking at a dead person.

Blake also came running over.

Seeing me, his brows tightened. His voice was full of reproach.

Where have you been? Why didnt you answer your phone?

Didnt I tell you to pick up Lucias second uncle? He came by cab and complained the whole way.

And why are you dressed like this? Trying to steal the spotlight? Hurry backstage and change. Just wear a normal dress.

I looked at the man I had loved for three years.

For him, I gave up a chance to go abroad. For him, I cooked soup late at night. For him, I personally arranged every corner of the wedding home.

Now, he wanted me to wear an ordinary dress and serve his first love.

No need.

I stepped back, avoiding the hand he reached out to pull me with.

Im not staying here.

Blake froze. Then fury rushed up.

Vivian Shaw, what kind of fit are you throwing now? The wedding is about to start.

Youre making trouble at this exact moment just to embarrass Lucia, arent you?

Im telling you, whether you want to or not, you will finish the process today.

Looking at his enraged face, I suddenly smiled.

The smile did not reach my eyes.

Blake Foster, you seem to have misunderstood something.

I adjusted my gloves, my voice cold.

I didnt come here to attend your wedding.

I came to get married at my own.