Page 12 of The Devil's Canvas

She sighs. "Anyway, I have to get back to work. I just took a late lunch, and I swear if I hear one more person tell me I have a 'heroic profession,' I might scream."

"You're doing good things, Bells," I say, even though I know she hates when people say it.

"Yeah, yeah," she replies, but I can hear the smile in her voice. "Text me later?"

"Of course. Bye, Bella."

"Bye, Lia."

The line clicks off, leaving me alone with my thoughts. A soft chime breaks the silence.

I glance at my phone, expecting a message from Melanie, but it’s not a text. It’s an email. From Melanie’s assistant.

Still, I tap the screen. The email opens, and there it is—a meticulously curated timeline of my impending suffering.

From: Kimberly Cho, Assistant to Melanie Arden

To: Ophelia Arden, Arabella Arden

Subject: Dominic Forsythe & Melanie Arden Wedding Itinerary – Finalized Schedule

Cover Story Photoshoot –Required. Full family participation. No opt-outs.

Engagement Documentary Interview –Pre-scripted testimonials. Be prepared.

Bridal Press Conference –Live-streamed. Designer sponsors featured. No mistakes.

Exclusive Bachelorette Celebration –Industry event. Cameras everywhere. Smile.

Charity Gala –High-profile attendance mandatory. No plus-ones.

Wedding Feature Special –Documentary-style footage. Minimal speaking.

Rehearsal Week –Daily prep, media staging, and curated family moments.

Rehearsal Dinner –Filmed. Dress code enforced. Individual statements expected.

Pre-Wedding Brunch –Final press event. No opt-outs.

Wedding Day –International coverage. Press interviews guaranteed.

Post-Wedding Magazine Feature –Additional press appearances may be scheduled.

I scroll to the bottom, where a final note from Melanie glares back at me in bold text.

This is a carefully curated event. Any deviations will reflect poorly. Please don’t make this difficult.

I stare at the words, gripping my phone tighter. Translation: Don’t embarrass me. Don’t complain. Show up and play your part.

I press my lips together and exit the email, as if ignoring it will make it go away.

But it won’t.

It never does.

Chapter Two

Julian