His wedding was fast approaching, and everyone was thrilled—especially Victoria Hayes. She proudly bragged about her soon-to-be daughter-in-law, Madison: stunning, wealthy, and sophisticated. Certainly not that plain country girl, Hailey.
Victoria, the glamorous owner of a luxury beauty spa and resort, was glowing with pride. Her son Ethan, CFO of her company, had finally met someone “worthy.” At a gathering with her lifelong friend Sophia—who flew in from abroad for the big event—Victoria gushed about Ethan’s accomplishments.
Tall, healthy, and successful, Ethan had recently returned from studying overseas. Business was booming, and the family had just moved into a posh new apartment complex in Bel Air—exclusively designed for elites like politicians and CEOs.
Victoria’s success was due in no small part to influential investor Charles Bennett, whom she remained close to—for Madison’s sake. Though Victoria wasn’t focused on appearances, her polished and commanding look captivated many younger men.
It was at a birthday party that Madison first set eyes on Ethan.
Her allure was so strong, Ethan instantly forgot about Hailey—the quiet girl he had met months earlier in a sleepy rural village.
Back then, Ethan had joined his college friend Dylan at a grand country estate to celebrate his graduation. After a few drinks, the group ended up at a local country club where Hailey caught Ethan’s attention.
But Dylan sneered at the idea of her. “She cleans toilets, man. Just a bumpkin. Let’s mess with her,” he whispered to the group.
“Ethan, go charm her. Make her feel special. Dance with her, pretend to fall for her—then ghost her. Show her where she belongs.”
Ethan hesitated, then shrugged. “Sure. Why not? Sounds like harmless fun.”
As the music slowed, he approached her. “Care to dance?” he asked.
Hailey nodded shyly, breath held, eyes wide and innocent, her lips parted like she was hoping for a kiss.
“What’s your name?” Ethan asked.
“Hailey,” she whispered.
“I’m Ethan. Want to see me again?”
“Yes… I’d like that,” she said softly, glowing.
They danced and talked all night, wrapped in a bubble of romantic energy. It felt like a genuine connection.
The next day, Ethan asked her out again. Hailey was ecstatic.
That weekend flew by. On the drive back to the city, Ethan found himself deep in thought. Maybe… just maybe… he wanted to see her again.
But the reality of his world quickly returned. His mother had opened a new salon, business was hectic—and then he met Madison.
They crossed paths while Ethan was suit shopping for an upcoming wedding. He was unsure what to pick until a saleswoman reassured him that he’d look good in anything. At the same time, Madison was at a bridal salon, sifting through dresses with the confidence of someone born into privilege.
“This one’s too plain,” she said. “Too understated for my status. But this one… now this is worthy.”