The Silent Luna's Trial (Maple and Finn) novel Chapter 57

57 /82

Chapter 3

Chloe’s eyes lingered on Tessa for a moment, clearly caught off guard. Though Tessa usually maintained a cool, detached demeanor, she had never been so straightforward or unguarded before.

“I’m sorry, Tessa,” Chloe murmured, her voice softening. “I didn’t realize this wedding dress meant so much to you…”

She wore an expression of hurt, as if wounded by the oversight. How could Chloe have been so blind? The dress wasn’t just any gown—it was Tessa’s creation from start to finish. Every stitch, every choice of fabric, every delicate embellishment had been carefully selected and crafted by her hands. It was more than a dress; it was a symbol of everything Tessa had hoped for in this union.

Since the moment Ryan had proposed, Tessa had invested so much of herself into this bond, treating it as sacred.

Ryan glanced at Chloe briefly before turning his attention to Tessa. “It’s not a big deal, babe. Don’t get upset. It’s Chloe’s first time trying on a wedding dress. Just let her have this moment.”

Tessa’s eyes shifted to him, but instead of anger, there was a hollow emptiness in her gaze. It was a numbness that cut deeper than any fury could. He knew her well enough to understand how much she detested the idea of wearing anything that had been worn by someone else—even if it was her own design. Yet here he was, dismissing her feelings with such casual ease.

For the first time, Tessa felt a strange distance between them, as if the man before her was a complete stranger. This was no longer the Ryan who had chased her relentlessly, who had once made her heart race with hope.

She lifted her eyes to Chloe, unwilling to engage in an argument. Her lashes fluttered gently, and her voice softened to a quiet whisper. “It’s yours.”

Without waiting for a response, Tessa turned on her heel and walked out of the bridal shop, leaving behind the swirling emotions and unspoken tensions.

Ryan hurried after her, reaching out to grasp her wrist. “Babe, what’s wrong? Are you upset?”

“We’re here to try on wedding dresses, remember?” he added, his tone pleading.

“Don’t be mad, I’ll—”

Tessa cut him off, overwhelmed by the noise and the weight of the moment. “No, I’m just tired. I’m going home now. You can pick whichever dress you want.”