*The Engagement*
758 Words
Heiley was getting ready in her room when her phone rang. It was Zoe.
"Hey Heils! Where are you? The engagement ceremony's about to start! You can't miss mine and Troy's big day. By the way, wear the other jewelry set Aunt Martha gave us on graduation day? We'll be matching."
She laughed while pulling out the jewelry box. "Haha, yes ma’am! Your wish is my command. We gotta match." Zoe beamed and asked, "How've you been lately with your step-sister?"
She sighed thoughtfully. "Emily has been quiet for a month now... no drama since Dad was discharged from the hospital. Maybe Mom Sarah put some sense in her." Zoe said, "Okay, be here soon," and ended the call.
...........................
Heiley arrived at the engagement venue, looking stunning in her outfit and matching jewelry with Zoe's. The place was buzzing with guests and decorations were on point. She spotted Zoe, beaming in her engagement attire, chatting with some friends.
Zoe saw her and squealed, rushing over. "Heils! You made it! Where is Uncle Harris?" They hugged tight. She smiled while pulling from the hug. "Wouldn't miss it for the world, and Dad is coming. You look gorgeous, Zo!" Zoe grinned, and as she was showing off her engagement outfit, Troy walked up to them, looking sharp in his suit. "Look who we have here."
Zoe rolled her eyes playfully. "Troy, I thought you were too busy with your buddies to spot us." She slipped her arm around him.
Heiley smiled at him. "Hey, groom-to-be. You're looking very dashing." Troy grinned. "Thanks, Heils. You guys are the best squad a guy could ask for."
The three chatted while welcoming the arriving guests, and their eyes landed on Heiley's dad and Sarah. Zoe and Troy walked over, smiling warmly.
"Uncle Harris! Aunt Sarah! So great to see you," Zoe said, giving them a hug, and Troy shook Harris's hand. "Uncle Harris. Lovely to see you." Harris smiled, pleased. "Thanks, Troy. Zoe. You two look amazing together."
Heiley's dad and Sarah chatted with Troy and Zoe for a bit. Emily was with them, but Troy and Zoe barely acknowledged her, focusing on the adults. Emily stood quietly, trying to blend in. Heiley joined them, and the group caught up for a bit. Troy looked at his watch and tugged Zoe's hand. "It's time for the ceremony."
The venue's lights dimmed slightly, and the emcee's voice filled the air. "Ladies and gentlemen, attention everyone! It's time... The engagement ceremony is about to begin!" Troy and Zoe took their places at the decorated stage, hands joined. The crowd settled, buzzing with excitement. Heiley smiled, standing with her dad and Sarah beside their table. The ceremony started with a lively salsa tune, and the air filled with joy.
The emcee welcomed everyone and introduced Troy's family, followed by Zoe's. The crowd applauded as the couple exchanged gifts and rings. Zoe's eyes sparkled as Troy slipped a diamond ring onto her finger.
Heiley's dad put an arm around her, smiling at the happy couple. Sarah leaned in, whispering, "They look perfect together." The ceremony wrapped up with a toast. The crowd erupted in cheers as Troy dipped Zoe in a passionate kiss and confetti rained down.
The music pulsed through the venue as couples flooded the dance floor. Heiley stood watching, a smile on her face. Emily approached, looking sincere. "Heiley, I know you're still mad at me... but I'm sorry." Heiley's expression softened a bit. She didn't know what Emily was up to but decided to go along. "It's okay."
Emily nodded, catching a waiter's eye. He approached with two glasses of wine. Emily picked them up and handed one to Heiley. "To a new chapter?" They clinked glasses, sipping as the music swelled. The song ended, and their parents approached. Harris smiled. "It's good to see you both chatting... means you can get along." Emily excused herself. "Need to use the restroom."
Twenty minutes passed, and Heiley started feeling uneasy. Her head swam. "Dad, I don't feel well." Harris looked concerned. "Maybe you drank too much." She shook her head. "Maybe... but I only had one glass." Harris handed her a hotel room card. "Here's your room number. Go get some rest."
Heiley headed to the hotel room, the corridor quiet after the party's noise. She swiped the card and pushed open the door, stepping inside.
As she closed the door behind her, the room number plaque swung crookedly — the '9' now '6'. The room number which was 209 turned to 206.
- Writer
