THE BILLIONAIRE'S BETRAYED BRIDE

Serena Calloway’s POV Sunlight poured through the sheer curtains, casting a golden glow across my bedroom. I opened my eyes slowly, blinking against the brightness. Today was my wedding day. A thrill shot through me as I stretched, my fingers grazing the silky sheets. My heart pounded with excitement. I had dreamed of this moment for years. Now, it was finally here. A knock on the door interrupted my thoughts. "Come in," I called, sitting up. The door swung open, and Cassidy, my best friend and maid of honor, stepped inside. She was already dressed in a satin robe, her blonde hair perfectly curled. "Good morning, bride-to-be!" she sang, grinning. I smiled back. "Morning." She plopped onto the bed beside me. "How does it feel knowing that in a few hours, you will officially be Mrs. Whitmore?" My stomach fluttered. "Surreal. Exciting. A little scary." She laughed. "Scary? Serena, you are marrying one of the most powerful, gorgeous billionaires in the city. Women would kill to be in your shoes." I bit my lip. "I know. It just feels… big. Like everything changes after today." Cassidy squeezed my hand. "It does. But in the best way possible." A second knock came, and Olivia, my other bridesmaid, peeked in. "Are we just going to sit here, or are we getting this bride ready?" Cassidy jumped up. "Let’s get to work!" I laughed as they pulled me out of bed. The next hour passed in a blur of excitement. My bridal suite buzzed with activity as my team of stylists arrived. Curling irons hissed, makeup brushes swept across my skin, and the scent of fresh roses filled the air. "Hold still," the hairstylist murmured as she twisted my hair into an intricate updo. Cassidy stood behind me, watching through the mirror. "Serena, you look like a goddess." I blushed. "It is not even done yet." "It does not matter," Olivia said from the vanity. "You are glowing." I met my own reflection. My dark brown eyes sparkled with excitement. My skin, flawless under the light, radiated happiness. A soft knock sounded. My mother stepped inside, her hands clasped together. Her gaze swept over me, and her eyes filled with tears. "Mom," I whispered. She pressed a hand to her mouth, shaking her head. "You look… breathtaking." My throat tightened. She walked over, cupping my face gently. "I am so proud of you, sweetheart." "Mom, you are going to make me cry," I choked out. She laughed softly. "No tears yet. We still have to get you into your dress." A flurry of excitement followed as my wedding gown was carefully lifted from its hanger. The fabric was soft under my fingertips. A vision of white lace and delicate embroidery. It was everything I had ever dreamed of. Cassidy and Olivia helped me step into it, fastening the buttons down my back. When I turned to the mirror, my breath caught. The dress hugged my body in all the right places, flaring into a soft, flowing skirt. Tiny pearls shimmered along the bodice, catching the light with every movement. A lump formed in my throat. I looked like a bride. Cassidy sighed. "Noah is going to lose his mind when he sees you." My mother dabbed at her eyes. "My little girl is all grown up." I swallowed hard. "I cannot believe this is real." There was another knock, and this time, it was the wedding coordinator. "Everything is running smoothly," she said. "The venue is almost ready. The guests are arriving in an hour." My pulse quickened. It was happening. Cassidy clapped her hands. "Champagne! We need a toast." Glasses were poured and handed around. Olivia raised hers first. "To Serena and Noah." "To true love," my mother added. Cassidy grinned. "To the most beautiful bride in the world." I took a deep breath. "To forever." We clinked glasses, laughter filling the room. The bubbly drink tickled my throat, sending warmth through my chest. Just then, my phone buzzed on the vanity. I grabbed it, my heart skipping when I saw Noah’s name. Noah: Good morning, my love. Are you ready for our forever? A smile spread across my lips. Me: More than ready. Noah: I cannot wait to see you. You are going to take my breath away. My fingers tremble slightly as I typed back. Me: And you are going to make me cry before I even walk down the aisle. Noah: Then I will be right there to wipe your tears. Always. My chest ached with love. Cassidy peeked over my shoulder. "Ugh. You two are disgustingly sweet." I laughed, pressing the phone to my heart. There was a sudden commotion outside. Elliot, my older brother, appeared in the doorway, looking as sharp as ever in his tuxedo. "Are you ready, little sister?" he asked, his voice warm. I turned to him, my emotions bubbling over. "I think so." He stepped closer, adjusting my veil slightly. "You look beautiful, Serena." "Thanks, Elliot." He hesitated, something flickering in his expression. For a moment, I thought he might say something else. But then, he smiled and kissed my forehead. "I will see you inside," he murmured before stepping out. I frowned slightly, a strange feeling settling in my stomach. But before I could dwell on it, my mother took my hands. "It is time to head to the venue," she said softly. My heart pounded. Cassidy let out a squeal. "Let’s get this bride to her wedding!" Laughter and excited chatter filled the air as we made our way out of the suite. As I stepped into the awaiting limousine, I closed my eyes for a moment, breathing in the reality of it all. This was it. The beginning of my forever.