Chapter 372

I gasped in astonishment at the sight before me. The rooftop lounge was transformed into a chic oasis, with twinkling fairy lights casting a warm glow over the space and plush lounge seating scattered around the perimeter. The city skyline stretched out before us, a breathtaking backdrop to the festivities that lay ahead.

But it wasn't just the decor that took my breath away – it was the familiar faces waiting for me at the center of the lounge. Penny and Scarlett stood there, their smiles lighting up the night as they waved excitedly in my direction.

"Surprise, Evie!" they exclaimed in unison, their voices filled with excitement.

I blinked in disbelief, feeling a rush of emotion welling up inside me at the sight of my friends gathered together to celebrate. "Penny, Scarlett, what are you doing here?" I asked, my voice tinged with disbelief.

Penny grinned, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "We're here to celebrate your last days of freedom, Evie! Aria planned the whole thing, and let me tell you, it's going to be a night to remember."

I turned to Aria, my eyebrows raised in surprise. "Aria, is this... is this my bachelorette party?"

Aria nodded, her grin widening as she gestured towards the lounge. "You bet it is, Evie! And we've got a lineup of exciting entertainment and activities planned to ensure there's never a dull moment."

I felt a surge of excitement course through me at the thought of the evening ahead, so meticulously planned. "Wow, Aria, I don't know what to say. This is incredible!"

Aria winked at me, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Just wait until you see what we have in store for you, Evie. It's going to be a night you'll never forget."

As we mingled with the other guests, I found myself surrounded by a mix of familiar faces and new acquaintances. Some of my coworkers, including Sarah and Michelle, were there, their laughter filling the air as they chatted animatedly with Penny and Scarlett.

"Evie, you look stunning!" Sarah exclaimed, pulling me into a hug. "I can't believe you're getting married soon!"

I laughed. "Thanks, Sarah. It still feels surreal, but I couldn't be happier."

Michelle grinned, raising her glass in a toast. "To Evie and Timothy, the happy couple! May your love shine as bright as the stars tonight."

We clinked our glasses together, the sound ringing out into the night.

The rooftop lounge buzzed with excitement as the DJ spun lively tunes, filling the air with pulsating beats that beckoned us to the dance floor. I couldn't help but grin as I watched my friends and coworkers mingle and laugh, their faces illuminated by the warm glow of the fairy lights that adorned the space.

Aria had truly outdone herself, orchestrating a night of fun that promised to be unforgettable. The energy was infectious, and I found myself swept up in the excitement of it all.

As the evening progressed, Aria wasted no time in kicking off the festivities with a series of fun games and activities. First up was a photo scavenger hunt, with teams racing against the clock to capture snapshots of various landmarks and objects scattered throughout the city.

I teamed up with Penny and Scarlett, our laughter filling the night air as we raced from one clue to the next, our competitive spirits driving us forward. It was a whirlwind of excitement and adrenaline, and by the time we returned to the rooftop lounge, breathless and exhilarated, I couldn't wipe the grin off my face.

But the fun didn't stop there. Next up was a dance-off competition, with everyone showing off their best moves in a battle for bragging rights. I watched in awe as my friends and coworkers took to the dance floor, their bodies moving in perfect harmony with the music.

As the pulsating rhythm of the music enveloped me, I couldn't resist the urge to join in on the dance floor. With a wide grin, I made my way to the center, feeling the beat thrumming through my veins.

Penny caught sight of me and let out a whoop of encouragement. "Go, Evie! Show us what you've got!"

Encouraged by her cheer, I began to move to the music, letting my body sway and groove in time with the beat. Scarlett joined in, clapping and cheering me on as I spun and twirled, my laughter mingling with the music.

"Evie, you're killing it!" Sarah shouted over the music, her eyes bright with excitement.

I laughed, feeling the weight of the world lifting off my shoulders with each step. "Thanks, Sarah! I'm just having fun!"

As the song reached its climax, I threw my arms up into the air, a wide grin spreading across my face as I surrendered myself to the rhythm. Scarlett and Aria then joined me on the dance floor, their movements mirroring my own as we danced together.

The DJ pumped up the volume, the bass thumping in time with my heartbeat as I joined the fray, letting the music wash over me and carry me away on a tide of euphoria. It was a night of pure joy and celebration, and I was determined to make the most of every single moment.

As the night wound down and the sweet scent of desserts filled the air, I found myself seated at a cozy corner of the rooftop lounge, indulging in a decadent slice of chocolate cake. The rich flavors danced on my taste buds.

Just as I took another forkful, I felt a gentle tap on my shoulder. I turned to see Scarlett, her eyes shining with warmth and affection. "Evie, may I have a word with you?"

Surprised but intrigued, I nodded, setting down my fork and giving her my full attention. Scarlett's presence always brought a sense of calm and comfort, and I found myself eager to hear what she had to say.

"Of course, Scarlett. What's on your mind?" I asked, a curious smile playing at the corners of my lips.

Scarlett took a seat beside me, her expression thoughtful as she spoke. "Evie, I just wanted to say congratulations. I've seen how happy Timothy makes you, and I couldn't be more thrilled for you both."

Her words touched my heart, filling me with a sense of gratitude for the friendship we shared. "Thank you, Scarlett. That means the world to me."

With a warm smile, Scarlett leaned in to wrap me in a tight embrace. When she pulled away, a determined glint sparkled in her eyes. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have something I'd like to say."

With that, she rose from her seat and made her way to the DJ booth, where the DJ was spinning lively tunes to keep the party going. The crowd around her cheered in anticipation, eager to hear what she had to say.

"Excuse me, DJ," Scarlett called out, her voice ringing out clear and confident over the music. "May I borrow the microphone for a moment?"

The DJ nodded, handing her the microphone with a smile. "Of course, lady. The floor is yours."

Scarlett took a deep breath, her gaze sweeping over the crowd with a mix of excitement and determination. "Ladies, if I could have your attention for just a moment," she began, her voice echoing through the rooftop lounge.

The chatter of the crowd quieted as all eyes turned to Scarlett, eager to hear what she had to say. "Tonight, we gather to celebrate the love and happiness of our dear friend, Evie," she continued, her words filled with warmth and sincerity.

"As we look around this room, we see the faces of those who have been touched by Evie's kindness and generosity, and we are reminded of the power of love to bring us together," Scarlett went on, her voice steady and unwavering.

"Evie, you are a beacon of light in our lives, and we are so grateful to have you in our hearts. May your marriage to Timothy be filled with nothing but love, laughter, and endless joy. Here's to the happy couple!" she concluded, raising her glass in a toast.

The crowd erupted into cheers and applause, their voices filling the air. I felt tears prickle at the corners of my eyes as I looked out at the sea of smiling faces, feeling overwhelmed by the love and support that surrounded me.

This was it – this was what security felt like. And as I basked in the warmth of the appreciation that filled the room, I knew that I was exactly where I was meant to be in life.