CHAPTER TWELVE – THE WEDDING HALL

The next morning dawned bright and early for Karina. She rubbed the sleep from her eyes as she made her way downstairs, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee beckoning her towards the kitchen. "Good morning, dear," her mother greeted her with a warm smile. "I was just about to come wake you. Our appointment with the wedding planner is in an hour." Karina stifled a groan, the memory of yesterday's tumultuous events still fresh in her mind. "Right, the wedding planner. Can't wait." Her mother's brow furrowed ever so slightly. "Karina, I know this arranged marriage hasn't been easy for you to accept, but I truly believe once you see the beautiful venue we've chosen, you'll feel more excited." Karina forced a tight smile, deciding it wasn't worth rehashing the same argument yet again. "If you say so, Mom." An hour later, they were climbing out of the car and making their way towards an ornate banquet hall. Karina had to admit, the building's stately facade was impressive, with towering m