The CEO's Midnight Remedy novel Chapter 50

**Dust Writes New Stories by Rei Holt Wilder**

**Chapter 50**

As I sat there, I could feel Ethan shifting uneasily beside me, his smile wavering under the weight of the moment. Scarlett was like a shadow, always hovering nearby, inserting herself between us at every opportunity. Her presence was palpable, a constant reminder of the tension in the air.

“Perhaps something simple yet elegant would be a wise choice,” Ethan suggested, his tone attempting to guide us toward more affordable options. I could sense his hesitation, the way he was trying to keep things grounded.

“Oh, Ethan, I truly believe that simple would fail to capture the essence of our love story,” I replied, intertwining my arm with his and resting my head gently against his shoulder. “Shouldn’t our announcement be as extraordinary as the bond we share?” My heart fluttered at the thought, and I wanted to make this moment unforgettable.

Margot, our enthusiastic planner, nodded vigorously in agreement. “Absolutely! Let me show you our premium collection. These invitations are handcrafted in Italy, utilizing techniques that have been perfected over centuries.”

With that, she unveiled a portfolio filled with samples that made my eyes widen in awe. Each invitation was a masterpiece—letterpress printing on exquisite handmade paper, luxurious silk ribbons, custom-designed wax seals, and even delicate hand-painted details.

“These are our most exclusive designs,” Margot explained, her voice brimming with pride. “Every invitation is crafted individually by skilled artisans. The process takes weeks, and naturally, the cost reflects that level of craftsmanship. They start at around one hundred dollars per invitation.”

I caught Ethan’s sharp intake of breath beside me, but I chose to ignore it. “They’re absolutely perfect,” I declared, my fingers gliding over the intricate details of one particularly elaborate design. “What do you think, darling? Isn’t this one stunning?”

Ethan nodded, though his expression was stiff. “It’s… very nice. But perhaps—”

“I think it’s too busy,” Scarlett interrupted, reaching for a simpler design that lacked the flair I craved. “This one is much more elegant. And it’s probably more reasonable.”

Completely disregarding her suggestion, I turned back to Margot with determination. “I’d love to share a bit about our love story so you can truly capture the essence of our relationship in the announcement.”

Scooting my chair closer to Ethan’s, I placed my hand on his knee, gazing adoringly into his eyes. “You see, I’ve been in love with Ethan for years. I pursued him relentlessly, even when he didn’t reciprocate my feelings at first. But eventually, he came to realize how much he loved me too.” I turned back to Margot, my heart racing. “Isn’t that right, darling?”

Ethan’s smile now resembled more of a grimace. “That’s… one way to put it.”

“Oh, don’t be modest,” I insisted, giving his knee a gentle squeeze. “Everyone knows how I chased after you until you finally gave in. It’s such a romantic tale!”

Scarlett’s complexion had turned pale, her knuckles turning white as she gripped the edge of the table, clearly unsettled by my words.

“So, I’d like the announcement to highlight how persistent my love was, and how Ethan finally realized I was the one for him,” I continued, keeping a watchful eye on Scarlett. “Something like, ‘After years of Aria’s unwavering devotion, Ethan Blake finally opened his heart to true love.'”

“That’s not quite—” Ethan began, but I swiftly cut him off with a quick, affectionate kiss on the cheek.

“It’s exactly how it happened,” I insisted, my voice firm. “Don’t you remember how I used to send you those little gifts? And how I’d show up at all your events? I was so determined to make you mine.”

“I think that’s a beautiful story,” Margot interjected, though I could sense the tension in the room. She was professional enough to navigate it without acknowledging the undercurrents. “Now, how many invitations were you considering ordering?”

Ethan cleared his throat, the weight of the moment pressing on him. “Well, our combined family lists would probably be around two hundred people, so perhaps two hundred and fifty invitations to be safe?”

“Oh no,” I countered, shaking my head. “We need to think bigger. This is going to be the social event of the season. I’m thinking five hundred, minimum.”

“This entire charade,” she snapped, her carefully crafted facade finally beginning to crack. “You don’t love Ethan. This is just a business merger, nothing more.”

I turned to face her, my expression remaining neutral. “And?”

“And you’re spending a fortune on announcements for a wedding that’s nothing but a corporate strategy!” Her voice trembled with fury now. “The Blake family needs Harper’s media connections, and your father wants access to their fashion empire. That’s all this is.”

“So?” I asked calmly, examining my nails with feigned disinterest. “What’s your point, Scarlett? Every marriage in our circle has strategic advantages. Did you think I was marrying Ethan for his charming personality and faithful nature?”

That caught her off guard, and she stared at me, momentarily at a loss for words.

“I know exactly what this engagement is,” I continued, my tone steady. “And I’m playing my part to perfection. The question is, what part are you playing?”

Before she could respond, her phone buzzed, and her expression shifted from anger to barely concealed delight. She glanced down at the screen, a smug smile creeping across her face.

“I have to go,” she said abruptly, already making her way toward the stairs with a newfound spring in her step.

“Hot date?” I called after her, unable to resist the urge to dig at her.

She paused, turning back with a triumphant smile that she quickly tried to mask. “Something like that. Don’t wait up, sister dear.”