"Do you, David Park, choose Avery Downs as your beloved partner in life, your lifelong companion and confidant, pledging to uphold and honor her in all facets of existence, through joyous times and challenging trials? Will you hold her dear, treating her with utmost reverence, nurturing her aspirations and goals, while fostering her personal development and offering unwavering support along every step of the shared journey?" The priest's voice reverberated throughout the enchanting wedding venue, where everyone in attendance eagerly anticipated David's response.

David gazed intently into Avery's eyes. He drew a deep breath, his vow exiting his lips.

"I, David Park, wholeheartedly and sincerely choose Avery Downs to be my lifelong companion, my dearest friend, and my equal in every facet of life. As we embark on this journey together, I commit to nurturing and cherishing her with an abundance of love and profound admiration.

Respect will be the cornerstone of our relationship, as I hold her opinions, dreams, and aspirations in high regard, always considering her as an equal partner in any decision we undertake. Without falter, I pledge to be her unwavering pillar of support, continuously urging her to pursue her aspirations and recognizing her true potential, even in moments of adversity.

In this journey of life, I promise to stand by her side, not only during the joyous moments but also during the challenging times. Together, we will celebrate every victory, big and small, and find solace and strength in one another during the darkest hours. I will be her constant rock, offering love, compassion, and understanding, knowing that her happiness is intricately intertwined with my own.

Above all, I pledge to love her unconditionally, embracing her flaws and imperfections as the unique facets that make her who she is. I promise to wake up every day committing to this love, this partnership, and this adventure we have embarked upon, for as long as we both shall live."

As David concluded his vow, the air seemed to hold its breath, enveloped in the profundity of his words. Avery looked at him, shocked - or overwhelmed - by the depth of his words. She found herself wondering what had inspired such a heartfelt declaration.

"What's with him? A simple 'I do' would have been better. What's with the long speech? It's an arranged marriage, dude!" She thought to herself.

She glanced around once more, her eyes flitting across the guests seated on either side of the pristine white aisle runner. Finally, her gaze settled on her mother.

"It's because of you that I'm here, about to marry a man I've only met twice," her eyes silently conveyed to her mother.

How did she end up here?

Well, it all started two weeks ago.

***Two weeks ago***

Avery was all cuddled up in bed with Tiffany as they had just finished engaging in a passionate makeout session. Their bodies were sweaty as they were tightly wrapped together under the blanket.

"I missed you," Avery whispered softly against Tiffany's skin.

"Going a whole month without seeing you wasn't easy..." Tiffany said.

"I am glad you are back," Avery kissed Tiffany.

"Avery, I have something to say," Tiffany said as Avery continued to kiss her neck.

"It's important. Please just hold on," Tiffany said, sitting up. Avery finally relented.

"Okay, go ahead," Avery finally gave Tiffany the attention she desired.

"Okay, so... the trip wasn't quite successful... and I don't usually do things like this... and it's also quite embarrassing..." Tiffany began.

"Okay?" Avery prompted.

"I need a favor from you, babe," Tiffany said.

"A favor? Let's hear it then," Avery said, leaning in closer to Tiffany.

Tiffany hesitated for a moment before finally gathering the courage to speak.

"Um... could you please lend me some money? The bills are starting to suffocate me. I need to invest more in my business, and my three younger siblings have educational expenses that need to be taken care of.

On top of that, my mom needs to seek treatment abroad. I know it's uncomfortable to ask the person I love for money, and I don't want it to strain our relationship, but I really need your help, Avery..." Tiffany trailed off as Avery surprised her with a kiss.

"I'm a little disappointed, Tiffs," Avery admitted softly.

Tiffany's heart sank, fearing she had pushed Avery away.

"I'm sorry, Avery. It's okay if you don't want to lend me the money. It won't change how I feel about you," Tiffany quickly responded, brushing away her tears.

Avery took Tiffany's hands in hers.

"No, that's not what I meant. I'm disappointed that you asked me for money as if we were strangers or business partners. It broke my heart.

Every time I said I loved you, I meant it. Your struggles are mine and vice versa. So why are you crying? You've helped me in so many ways before, and even if you hadn't, I would gladly support you. You don't have to ask, and I don't have to give you permission," Avery explained, her eyes radiating love and understanding.

Tiffany's heart swelled with gratitude, her tears transforming from sadness to joy.

"Really? I can't just take without asking first," she protested.

Avery smiled warmly.

"No, baby. You don't have to ask. We're a team, and my bank account is your bank account. I'll give you access to it. Transfer whatever you need, and even more if necessary, okay?" Avery assured her, cupping Tiffany's cheeks in her hands and stroking them gently.

A glimmer of relief and excitement flickered in Tiffany's eyes.

"Thank you, Avie."

Tiffany felt an immense weight lift off her shoulders, replaced by a sense of relief and gratitude.

She pulled Avery into a tight and heartfelt embrace.

"Damn! Your breasts! I love how it's poking and pressed on my chest," Avery said.

"You wanna suck them again?" Tiffany winked at Avery and bit her lower lip seductively.

"Of course? Do you even have to ask?" Avery leaned forward as her mouth consumed Tiffany's breasts.

***

Avery was in the middle of a grueling workout at the gym when she felt her phone vibrate in her pocket. With a single glance at the caller ID displaying "Daddy," a smile instantly spread across her face.

However, her excitement swiftly transformed into confusion as her mom's name appeared alongside her dad's. Furrowing her brows, she gazed at the screen, wondering why her mom was calling in the first place. Before she could make sense of it, both calls ended.

A message from her dad popped up on the screen.

"I guess you are busy. Call me when you are free," the text read.

Almost simultaneously, her mom's message popped up.

"Come home for dinner tonight. Make sure you are here by 6pm," her mom's text commanded.

"What does this woman want now?" Avery muttered to herself, a sigh escaping her lips. Puzzled and slightly irritated, she dialed her dad's number, hoping to gather some insight into her mom's sudden request. As their conversation unfolded, it became apparent that her dad was unaware of the reason behind her mom's invitation. He reassured her that he was merely checking in on her.

What could her mom possibly want from her now?

It hasn't been up to three months yet, has it?