The bride heard the groom’s confession minutes before the wedding. Her revenge surprised everyone. Valentina Miller felt her legs trembling while she adjusted her veil for the last time in the sacry room. In a few minutes, she would walk toward the altar of St. Peter’s Church in the center of Aspen to marry Alexander Sterling, the man she had loved for 3 years.

It was then that she heard voices in the hallway. The door was a jar, and she instantly recognized the groom’s loud laugh. Curious, she approached slowly to listen. “Hey, are you sure this is going to turn out well?” It was the voice of Julian, the best man. “Of course it is, buddy. Valentina is madly in love with me. After we get married, it will only be a matter of time before I convince her to give me power over her father’s businesses.” Alexander responded with a coldness that she had never noticed before.

Valentina felt the world collapsing. She leaned against the wall so as not to fall. And if she suspects something, ask the other groomsmen. Dylan, her Valentina is too naive. She believes I am her prince charming. When I get the power of attorney, I will sell some properties of old Richard. He won’t even notice. He is too busy with his companies to check every document he signs. The laughs echoed in the hallway like stabs in Valentina’s heart. She took her hand to her chest, feeling her heart racing.

3 years of relationship, 3 years of plans. Everything was a lie. But will you stay married to her afterward? Julian insisted. For now, yes. I need total access to her assets. After well, accidents happen, don’t they? Alexander laughed again [clears throat] and Valentina had to cover her mouth so as not to scream. Alexander, man, you are serious. Dylan seemed uncomfortable. Relax, Dylan. Nothing will happen to her. I will only divorce when I have what I need. I’ll say we grew apart.

That it didn’t work. She will stay with a broken little heart, but she will get over it. Women always get over it. Valentina leaned against the wall, trying to breathe. Her hands trembled so much she almost dropped the bouquet of white roses. How had she not realized? How had she been so blind? “And the debts?” Julian asked in a low voice. “Ah, those I will pay fast with her money. I owe almost $200,000 to the casino people.

They are getting impatient, you know. But after today, problem solved. $200,000. Casino. Valentina never knew that Alexander gambled. He always said he worked until late in the accounting office. In reality, he was losing money in the game. Do you think anyone suspects? Alexander lowered his voice. Richard seems to trust you and Mrs. Patricia adores you. Dylan responded. Valentina’s mom is easy to fool. She always wanted to see her daughter married. And the father, well, he is smart, but he is so happy to see his daughter fulfilled that he doesn’t suspect anything.

Valentina closed her eyes. Her parents really loved Alexander very much. He knew exactly how to behave in front of them. Always kind, always helpful, always interested in the family’s businesses. And if we go now, Julian suggested nervously. There is still time to cancel all this. Cancel? Are you crazy? I’ve been planning this for 2 years since I discovered Richard Miller is worth more than 5 million. His daughter is my entry to that money. 2 years. He had planned it for 2 years.

Valentina remembered when they met at the mall. Alexander had tripped over her in the food court, spilled her coffee, and offered to buy her another one. He seemed so tender, so genuine. Everything was calculated. “Guys, it’s time. The music already started,” Dylan warned. “Ready? Let’s pretend we are happy, then.” Alexander laughed once more. The footsteps moved away down the hallway. Valentina stayed alone, listening only to the sound of her own heart beating without control and the wedding march starting to sound in the church.

She looked at herself in the sacristy mirror, the white dress that cost $15,000, chosen with such affection during months of preparation. The great grandmother’s veil passed from generation to generation in the Miller family. The perfect makeup done by the best professional in the city. All for a man who only wanted her money. Valentina breathed deep and dried the tears that were starting to fall. No, she would not collapse. She would not give Alexander Sterling the pleasure. If he wanted to play dirty, she also knew how to do it.

The cell phone vibrated. a message from her younger sister. Val, where are you? Everyone is waiting for you. Valentina responded. I’m coming, Sophia. She kept the phone, adjusted the veil and the bouquet. She smiled at the mirror, rehearsing the expression she would use from now on. Did Alexander want a passionate and naive bride? That was exactly what he would have. But his revenge would be something he never imagined. Valentina came out of the sacry and walked through the hallway of the church.

The guests turned to admire her. Whispers of approval filled the environment. She greeted and smiled, interpreting to perfection the role of the radiant bride. Dear listener, if you are enjoying the story, don’t forget to give a like and above all subscribe to the channel. That helps us a lot who are starting out. Now, let’s continue. They’re at the front. Alexander waited for her by the altar. When their looks met, he smiled in that way that before made her melt.

Now she knew that everything was theater. Richard Miller, her father, waited for her to take her to the altar. At 60 years old, he had built an empire of three gas stations and two coffee shops in the city. Simple man who started washing cars and arrived up to where he was with much work. “My princess, you are beautiful,” said Richard, offering her the arm. “Thanks, Dad. ” Valentina took his arm, trying to control the voice. While they walked through the nave of the church, she observed the known faces from the side of her family, uncles, cousins, childhood friends, from the side of Alexander, much fewer people.

His mother, Mrs. Carmen, who always treated her with coldness disguised as politeness. Some relatives and friends. Julian and Dylan were near the altar trying to look normal. When Dylan saw her arrive, he lowered the look, clearly uncomfortable. At least one of them had conscience. Alexander continued smiling with that pose of excited groom. What a talented actor. When they arrived at the altar, Richard kissed the forehead of his daughter and handed her hand to Alexander. “Take good care of her,” said Richard, looking him in the eyes.

Always, mister Richard. She is the love of my life, responded Alexander, squeezing Valentina’s hand. If she didn’t know the truth, she would have been moved. Now she felt disgust. Father Michael, who baptized her as a small child, began the ceremony. Valentina disconnected during the first parts, concentrated on organizing mentally what she would do. We are gathered here to celebrate the union of Valentina and Alexander, said the father. Marriage is a sacred institution based on love, respect, and mutual sincerity.

Sincerity? What a cruel joke. Alexander, do you accept Valentina as your legitimate wife? Do you promise to love her and respect her in joy and in sadness, in health and in sickness, in wealth and in poverty, all the days of your life? I accept, said Alexander, looking her deeply in the eyes. Valentina, do you accept Alexander as your legitimate husband? Do you promise to love him and respect him in joy and in sadness, in health and in sickness, in wealth and [clears throat] in poverty, all the days of your life?

Valentina made a pause of a second, felt all the looks over her. Alexander squeezed her hand, but she noticed the tension behind his smile. I accept, she responded, and saw the relief on his face. Before proceeding with the exchange of rings, the couple wished to make a personal declaration, announced the father. Valentina had planned it weeks before when she still believed in their love. Now it would be useful in another way. Alexander began first. Valentina, when I met you that day at the mall, I knew that my life had changed forever.

You brought light, joy, and purpose to my days. I promise to be the husband you deserve, to take care of you and to build our family with all the love I have in the heart. Some guests were moved. Valentina smiled, but inside she thought and how he lied with such naturalness. It was her turn. Alexander, our relationship taught me much about trust, about delivering my heart completely to someone. Today here in front of our family and friends, I want you to know that I know you truly.

I know your dreams, your fears, your ambitions, and I promise to be at your side without importing the challenges we face together. She noticed Julian and Dylan exchanging quick looks. Alexander squeezed her hand again, but she felt it was slightly sweaty. “Now we will proceed to the exchange of the rings,” said the father. Alexander took his ring and slid it in her finger. With this ring, I wed you and promise to love you forever. Valentina did the same.

With this ring, I wed you and promise to love you forever. The words had a bitter taste in her mouth. By the power that has been conferred to me, I declare you husband and wife. Alexander, you can kiss the bride. Alexander approached and kissed her. It was a kiss she had dreamed of for months, but now it seemed mechanical and fake. The guests applauded and shouted. The wedding march recommenced higher and more festive. Valentina and Alexander walked back through the nave, receiving congratulations and rose petals thrown by the family.

Outside the church, the photos began. Valentina smiled and posed, representing perfectly the happy bride. She had to admit that Alexander also was convincing, embracing her affectionately for the photos. “You look beautiful together,” said the photographer. “It shows that you love each other much.” “Thanks,” responded Valentina. “We really love each other much, right, love?” Too much, agreed Alexander, kissing her forehead. During the photos, Valentina began to observe more attentively the guests. Her family was radiant. Patricia, her mother, cried of emotion when chatting with her friends.

Richard greeted everyone, proud of his daughter. From the side of Alexander, the environment was different. Mrs. Carmen forced smiles, but Valentina noticed that she whispered with some people, making comments that seemed malicious. Sophia, her 20-year-old sister, law student, approached during a pause in the photos. Val, are you okay? You look a bit weird. I’m perfect, Sophia. Why do you say it? I don’t know. You’re different. Very controlled. Valentina embraced her sister. They are just nerves. Everything is perfect.

But Sophia continued looking at her with that inquisitive expression that she developed in the university. After the photos, everyone headed to the ballroom of the Hienda Royale Hotel, the most elegant in Aspen. Valentina had dreamed with this reception for months, planning each detail with the most renowned event organizer of the region. The hall was decorated with white roses and green foliage. Golden lights created a magic environment. 250 guests settled in the round tables covered with imported linen tablecloths.

During the cocktail, Valentina circulated among the guests, receiving congratulations and embraces. She maintained the smile and responded to all the questions about plans for the honeymoon and children. But inside she analyzed each movement of Alexander. He chatted animatedly with the brothers-in-law, trying to impress with his knowledge about the businesses of the family. He talked about expanding the coffee shops, modernizing the gas stations, as if he were already part of the corporate plans of Richard. Valentina, dear, what a beautiful wedding, said Mrs.

Louisa, childhood friend of her mother. Alexander is a very special young man. You will be very happy. Thanks, Mrs. Louisa. He really is special. Special was an interesting word to describe someone who married for money. Patricia approached with the eyes still wet. My daughter, I am so happy. I had never seen you so fulfilled. Thanks, Mom. You and dad made a perfect party. Alexander seems to get along well with everyone. Your dad was chatting with him about taking him to know the headquarters of the company next week.

Valentina felt a knot in the stomach. Alexander was accelerating his plans. “How good,” she said, maintaining the smile. When the time for the dinner arrived, Valentina was sitting in the head table together with Alexander. He held her hand over the table, stroking it with the thumb. Before that gesture melted her, now it irritated her deeply. “You are gorgeous today,” whispered Alexander in her ear. “I can’t wait for our honeymoon.” “Me neither,” she lied. “The honeymoon? 15 days in Spain.

Gift of Richard for the newlyweds. 15 days alone with a man who only wanted to take advantage of her. The idea gave her nausea. During the dinner, Richard stood up to give the first speech. Friends, family, many thanks for being here in this so special day. Valentina always has been the light of our home. A sweet and intelligent girl who turned into a wonderful woman. Alexander, you are winning an incredible wife. and Valentina, you chose a good, hard-working man and who clearly loves you much.” The guests applauded.

Valentina smiled and greeted while Alexander stood up to embrace his father-in-law. “Thanks, Mr. Richard. I promise to take good care of Valentina, and I hope to learn much from you in the business. Who knows if I can help to expand even more the companies of the family?” Richard smiled, clearly satisfied with the attitude of his son-in-law, if he only knew. When it was the turn of Alexander to speak, he stood up and took the microphone. People, I want to thank everyone for being here today, especially to Mr.

Richard and Mrs. Patricia for receiving me as a son. Valentina, you have made me the happiest man in the world. I promise to pass the rest of my life making you smile. More soft and well- elaborated lies. Valentina applauded together with everyone while he kissed her again. Dear listener, if you are enjoying the story, don’t forget to give a like and above all subscribe to the channel. That helps us a lot who are starting out. Now continuing after the speeches, the music began.

The first dance would be with a song they chose together. Valentina remembered when they heard it for the first time, embraced in the sofa of her living room. Alexander said that the lyrics were perfect for them. Now dancing in the center of the hall with all the looks over them, Valentina felt as if she acted in a theatrical play. “You are tense,” whispered Alexander while they danced. Just nervous, she responded. There is so much people watching. Relax.

Everything is perfect. Our life is beginning. Our life. Valentina almost laughed at the irony. When the music finished, other couples joined the floor. Valentina danced with her father who was radiant. My princess, you took the right decision. Alexander is a good boy. Dad, can I ask you something? Of course, daughter. Do you really plan to involve him in the business? Richard stopped dancing for a second. Why do you ask it? Curiosity. He seems very interested. Well, now he is family and seems to have good ideas.

Why not? Valentina forced a smile. It just seemed very fast to me. daughter. When you love someone, you desire to include him in everything. It’s normal. If her father knew that his son-in-law only wanted to include him to rob him. After dancing with Richard, Valentina went to dance with Julian, who seemed extremely uncomfortable. Julian, are you okay? You look nervous. Ah, yes. I’m not very good at parties. How weird. You always were extroverted. Julian avoided her look.

Yes, maybe they are the nerves of the wedding. The responsibility of being best man, you know. I understand. It must be difficult when you know things you can’t tell. Julian tripped slightly. How so? Nothing specific. I just noticed that today you seem to keep some secret. No, no, everything is normal. But his nervousness was obvious. Valentina decided to press a little more. Julian, you guys are friends since long ago, right? Since school. Tell me, was he always like this?

Ambitious? Ambitious? How? Interested in money? In progressing quickly? Julian stopped dancing and looked at her directly. Valentina, why do you ask that? Just curiosity about my husband. I want to know him better through his friends. Look, Alexander, he is complicated sometimes. Complicated how? Julian looked around, ensuring that Alexander wasn’t near. Listen, maybe it’s better to talk another day. When? When? What? When I’m already married and it’s too late? Julian’s face pald. Valentina, I You what, Julian? He breathed deep.

I tried to convince him. I tried to tell him that this was wrong, but he doesn’t listen to me. Valentina stopped dancing completely. What are you talking about? You heard it, didn’t you? That’s why you make these questions. Hear what? The conversation in the sacry. You were there. Valentina felt her heart accelerating. They had discovered her. But at the same time, Julian was confirming everything. “And what do you plan to do with that information?” he asked clearly terrified.

“Still, I don’t know,” she responded with honesty. “But I know that I won’t let him use me.” “Valentina, for the love of God, don’t make a scandal here. There are 200 people. Don’t worry, Julian. I don’t plan to make a scandal.” Then [clears throat] what will you do? Valentina smiled sincerely for the first time since the morning. Something that he would never imagine. The music finished and they separated. Julianne went straight to talk with Alexander who conversed with some uncles of Valentina.

She saw how the two whispered with urgency, Alexander looking toward her with worried expression. Sophia approached. Val, what did you say to Julian? It seems he saw a ghost. Just talk between in-laws, responded Valentina. In-laws? Nothing. Something weird is happening. First you act weird, but now the best man of your husband seems terrified. What is happening? Valentina looked at her sister. Sophia was intelligent. She studied law. Maybe she could help her. Sophia, can you do me a favor without making questions?

Depends on the favor. I need you to look for information about Alexander discreetly. What type of information? Finances, debts, history. You have access to those databases of the university, right? Sophia opened the eyes. Valentina, what story is this? Did you discover something about him? Please, Sophia, just trust me and don’t tell anything to our parents yet. Yet, Valentina, you are scaring me. Do you promise me that you will do it? Sophia hesitated. All right, but afterward you tell me everything.

I promise. Alexander approached to the two with a forced smile. What are you two talking so serious? Baby plans, lied Valentina quickly. Sophia asked when we think to have babies. Ah, yes. We want to wait a couple of years, said Alexander, relaxing visibly. Yes, first we want to stabilize ourselves economically, completed Valentina, observing his reaction. Alexander smiled and surrounded her waist. Exact. I want to ensure that our family has all the security of the world. security with her money.

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