Chapter 135: Chapter 135
Aliyah’s POV
Tracy had already booked a beautiful outdoor venue with a garden setting, and dress fittings were lined up for next week. Balancing both felt overwhelming, yet empowering. This bar was proof I could build something for myself while stepping into marriage.
Guests started arriving as dusk fell. Papa and Cynthia came first, Papa beaming with pride as he inspected the bar setup. “My daughter, the businesswoman,” he said, hugging me tightly. Cohen arrived with Clara, offering a genuine compliment on the renovations and even volunteering to help behind the bar if needed — a small sign of our growing sibling bond. Tracy and Hope showed up next, Tracy squealing as she took in the decorations.
"This is going to be the talk of the town! And wait until the wedding — this energy is perfect practice!”
The party truly came alive around eight. The DJ switched to a livelier playlist, mixing smooth jazz with modern lounge beats. Laughter filled the air as guests mingled, sipping cocktails and sampling the appetizers. A local influencer I had invited took photos for social media, capturing the elegant vibe, the way the lights danced off the polished glasses, the soft glow making everyone look radiant. Some guests gathered near the stage where a small acoustic band performed soulful covers, their music weaving through conversations without overpowering them.
I moved through the crowd, greeting people, thanking them for coming. One woman, a potential regular, told me how the cozy booths reminded her of a place she’d loved in her hometown. A group of young professionals praised the signature drinks, already asking about future events. The energy was electric yet welcoming, exactly what I had envisioned. No racing adrenaline, just the quiet satisfaction of creating a space that felt like home for others.
Asher stayed close, his hand often finding the small of my back. During a quiet moment near the bar, he leaned in. “You’re glowing tonight. The pregnancy suits you.” His words sent warmth through me, even as doubts about our future occasionally resurfaced. Tatiana’s last threat still lingered in the back of my mind, but tonight, surrounded by success and support, it felt distant.
Elara tugged at my dress, her eyes wide with excitement. “Mommy, can I have another moon cupcake? And when is the wedding? Will there be cupcakes there too?” I laughed, scooping her up carefully.
“Soon, baby. And yes, there will be even better ones.” The night continued successfully. More guests arrived, the bar buzzed with orders, and the cash register rang steadily, not just from drinks but from merchandise like branded tumblers and moon-shaped keychains I had prepared as giveaways. Mrs. Jose circulated confidently, networking on my behalf and noting feedback for improvements.
By ten, the party was in full swing, with people dancing lightly in the open area, toasting to new beginnings. I stepped outside for a breath of fresh air, the cool night breeze soothing my tired feet. Looking back at the glowing windows, hearing the muffled music and laughter, a sense of accomplishment washed over me. This was mine. Built from my savings, my vision, my determination after leaving racing behind. While wedding veils and vows were being planned, this bar stood as my independent step forward.
Asher joined me outside, wrapping his jacket around my shoulders. “Ready to go back in? Or do you need a break?” I leaned into him. “Just a minute. It’s perfect, isn’t it?”
He nodded, his hand resting protectively over my still-flat belly. “It is. And so are you.” We returned inside together, rejoining the celebration. The launch was a triumph detailed, elegant, and full of promise. Yet as the night wore on, I couldn’t shake the feeling that this was only one chapter. The wedding preparations continued in the background: dress sketches on my phone, venue confirmations from Tracy, Asher’s quiet discussions about security to keep any unwanted guests away. Life was moving fast, a new business, a growing family, a second chance at forever.
For tonight, though, I allowed myself to celebrate. Luna’s Haven was open, thriving, and ready for whatever came next.
Three weeks had flown by in a blur of final wedding preparations, bar operations at Luna’s Haven, and the constant gentle reminder of the life growing inside me. My belly had just begun to show the faintest curve, something only Asher and I noticed when I stood naked in front of the mirror each morning. The morning sickness had mostly settled, but fatigue still clung to me like a shadow.
Wedding planning had intensified, the garden venue was confirmed, invitations had been sent, and my dress fittings were complete. The beautiful white gown with delicate lace and a flowing skirt that accommodated my changing body hung in the master bedroom closet, waiting. Everything felt closer, more real, and honestly, more terrifying. Tonight was the night of my bachelorette party. I stood in front of the full-length mirror in the suite Tracy had booked for the occasion, adjusting the simple yet elegant white dress I had chosen. It was knee-length, fitted at the waist with a soft flare, adorned with subtle silver embroidery that caught the light like moonlight on water.
Nothing too revealing or wild. I was pregnant, after all, and the last thing I wanted was anything that made me feel exposed. My hair was styled in loose waves, and I wore minimal makeup, just enough to highlight my eyes and give my cheeks a natural glow. The diamond engagement ring sparkled on my finger, a constant reminder of the commitment I had said yes to despite lingering doubts. Tracy had gone all out organizing everything. The private lounge at an upscale venue downtown was decorated tastefully, white and silver balloons, fairy lights strung across the ceiling, and a large banner that read “Aliyah’s Last Night as a Miss” in elegant script.
Soft music played in the background, a mix of upbeat pop and relaxing lounge tracks that wouldn’t overwhelm my senses. A table was laden with non-alcoholic cocktails, fresh fruit platters, chocolate-dipped strawberries, and a variety of finger foods that were pregnancy-safe. No wild strippers or crazy dares for me; Tracy knew my personality and respected the fact that I was carrying Asher’s child.
"Girl, you look stunning!” Tracy squealed as she entered the room, wearing a sparkling silver dress that complemented mine. She pulled me into a careful hug, mindful of my belly. Several other friends from my past racing days and a few new ones from the bar’s network were already there — about ten of us in total.
They cheered when I walked in, raising their glasses (mine filled with sparkling apple cider).
“To Aliyah!” one of them toasted. “From fierce racer to bar owner and soon-to-be bride. You’re killing it!” I smiled, feeling a warmth spread through me despite the nervous flutter in my stomach.