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Chapter 9 Taking Photos

Even if he started off just messing around with Ava, over time, he'd naturally carve out a special spot in his heart for her, seeing her as his girl.

If Ava was the first girl he ever slept with, that'd make it even more special.

This wasn't just about betraying our love; it showed he was a total jerk!

I glanced at James, who was still chatting away with the female boss about poses and smiles, then eyed his phone in his pocket.

When it was our turn for photos, he handed me a prop and grinned, "Emily, you look great holding this."

The photographer chimed in, "Alright, you two, scoot a bit closer. You're getting married, so give me a smile!"

Marriage—I couldn't muster a smile. But breaking up—I could nail a perfect sarcastic grin.

"The bride-to-be's smile looks a bit off. Give me another one," the photographer said playfully, clearly trying to get us to laugh.

James was a perfectionist, and since he paid well, the photographer was thorough. But it was just a photo, and it took nearly twenty minutes.

Even with a fake smile, my face was starting to freeze.

The photographer praised, "You two are probably the most beautiful and handsome couple we've photographed in the past three months. We hardly need to retouch the photos to get the best effect. However, we still need to adjust the lighting and filters, so please wait for about ten minutes."

"No problem. Once they're ready, my assistant will pick them up. We'll head out first!" James said, pulling me excitedly towards the city hall.

The photo studio was super close to the city hall—just across the street and through a plaza.

"What's the rush?" I asked, trying to buy some time and instinctively glancing at his phone.

James looked back at me indulgently and said, "I'm just worried the city hall will be crowded today. If we go early, we can queue up and get married sooner!"

His joy and anticipation didn't seem fake. Maybe I never really understood him. Or maybe he was just naturally good at pretending.

When we reached the entrance of the city hall, I couldn't help but glance at his phone three times.

I didn't believe Ava would have no reaction to our marriage registration. Whenever she vaguely tried to show off to me, I could sense her hostility.

There were quite a few people at the city hall, some consulting about marriage, and only a few couples actually getting married.

I heard his phone ring. I excused myself to the restroom and hid around a corner to eavesdrop on his conversation.

I clearly heard him say, "I have something important right now. What are you making a fuss about? Didn't we agree to end it like this?"

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