Huyen walked through the bustling marketplace, her long black hair tied into a neat bun and her slender hands clutching a worn, wooden shopping basket. She was accompanied by her mother, Thu, who chattered away about the neighbors and the latest village gossip. As they navigated through the crowd of vendors and shoppers, Huyen’s eyes darted across the various items for sale: fresh fruits and vegetables, hand-woven baskets, and colorful silk fabrics. But it wasn’t until she glanced down at a crumpled sheet of newspaper on the ground that she saw the article that would change her life forever.

The headline read: “Mail-Order Brides: A New Path to Love and Happiness.” The article described an elite service called Ever After Brides that connected young women with lonely men in faraway lands, promising love or at least companionship and financial security. At first, Huyen’s heart raced; she had never even considered doing such a thing before. But as she read on, she found herself drawn to the stories of the women who had found happiness in these unconventional marriages, and she even began to envy them for the courage required to take such a leap of faith. Huyen herself had never even been outside her province before, much less traveled to another country.

Her mother saw what she was reading and clucked with disapproval. “Put that down, my child. No good comes from such foolishness. It is absurd that those women are doing such a thing, not to mention dishonorable. Imagine going to America! It is not safe there, it is filled with racism. You will meet a nice Vietnamese man one day, I am sure of it.”

Huyen didn’t answer her mother right away. Instead, she kept reading with growing fascination. She thought of her own life, of the endless cycle of chores and caring for her younger siblings, and of the limited prospects for marriage within her village. Perhaps there was another way, she thought. There was a world out there beyond the rice paddies and the mountains that surrounded them. I would like to see some of it, she thought mournfully.

“Huyen,” her mother said again, a warning note in her voice this time.

“Yes, Mother,” she said demurely, and she let the article fall from her hand. But in her mind, she couldn’t stop thinking about what she’d read. The seed had been planted and refused to die.

For weeks afterward, Huyen found herself thinking about what she’d read. Her mind turned, over and over, back to the agency and what it might be able to offer her. If all those girls had found their happily ever after, why couldn’t she? She began to daydream about what it might be like to be married to a successful, foreign man in a large house like the ones the article described, a man who would make her heart flutter and make her feel special.

I am the daughter of a rice farmer, and if I stay here in my village, I will marry a rice farmer. Huyen loved her village and everyone in it, but some part of her didn’t want to remain surrounded by rice paddies and pastures for the rest of her life. Was it so wrong to want to see some of what the wider world had to offer while she was still young enough to enjoy it?

She wrestled with all of this for some time, before her breaking point finally came. One hot day, Huyen was out in one of the rice paddies helping her father, and she straightened with a groan to wipe the sweat from her forehead. It was hard, hard work--and in a flash of insight, she understood that if something did not change, this was all she could aspire to.

She wanted more. She wanted to be more. She wanted to spread her wings and fly.

And so, the next time Huyen had to leave her father’s house to spend all day running errands, she went to the nearest office of Ever After Brides. It wasn’t close; in fact, it was in the city of Can Tho, hours away by bus. The article had said there was an even larger office in Ho Chi Minh City, but there was no way Huyen could be there and back before dark. Huyen woke up early and was at the bus stop before dawn. She spent what little money she had to spare on a bus ticket, and found herself standing outside the sleek, modern-looking building that afternoon. Her heart was thundering in her chest as she stepped inside.

It was very modern looking, with sleek furniture and even several computer terminals complete with plush-looking chairs. Posters advertising testimonials from women praising the agency hung on the walls. As she looked around, a young, attractive Vietnamese woman in her late twenties wearing a crisp business suit approached her with a warm smile on her face.

“Can I help you, miss?” she asked.

Huyen nodded, a little shakily. “Yes.” She took a second to gather her courage, drew in a deep breath, and said the words she’d spent the entire bus ready rehearsing. “I-I wish to be a mail-order bride.”

“Then you’ve come to the right place,” the woman said kindly. She extended her hand and Huyen shook it. “My name is Ly. Let’s get you started.” She led Huyen over to a computer terminal and began to explain the process. “We have a very thorough screening process for both our brides and our clients. First, we’ll need some personal information from you, and then we’ll have you undergo a background check as well as a series of examinations to determine your mental and physical health. These tests are designed to assess your compatibility with our current pool of available grooms. Do you understand?”

Huyen nodded, feeling a little overwhelmed. “Yes,” she managed to say. “But I’ve never been to a big city before. I don’t have any money, and I don’t even know anyone here.”

“That’s perfectly all right, Huyen. None of this will cost you a cent. If your application is accepted, I’ll explain to you why,” Ly said. “Now, if you’ll follow me?”

She led Huyen through a pair of doors that said “AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL ONLY” to an examination room where she handed Huyen off to a middle-aged white man with salt-and-pepper hair and a kind smile.

“This is Dr. Wilson,” Ky said. “He’ll be performing the physical exam. Don’t worry. He’ll take good care of you.”

“It’s lovely to meet you, Huyen,” Wilson said in fluent Vietnamese. He was dressed in a crisp white coat and had a stethoscope around his neck. “Now, I’ll need to take your height, weight, breast size, blood pressure, pulse, and temperature, and extract a blood sample for testing,” he explained. “I’ll also examine your breasts and pelvic area. There will be a fertility test and a pap smear as well, just to make sure everything is in order, along with a few other things. I know this may seem awkward, but I will need you to disrobe completely.”

Huyen swallowed hard, clutching herself involuntarily. “Wh-what?”

Dr. Wilson smiled reassuringly. “Don’t worry, it’s nothing to be embarrassed about. It’s all perfectly normal. You’re here to become a bride, aren’t you? Well, we’ll need to make sure that you’re in good health, and that you can bear healthy children. I assure you, there’s nothing about you that I haven’t seen before.”

Huyen hesitated for a moment before slowly beginning to undress. She felt incredibly self-conscious as she removed her clothes, revealing her small, pale frame to the doctor. It was the first time she’d ever been naked in front of a man, and her petite body shivered.

Dr. Wilson began his examination, his hands gentle and professional. He listened to her lungs and heartbeat, took her blood pressure, checked her teeth and gums, and checked her temperature. Then he moved on to her breasts, examining them with care before moving to her groin. “I need to examine you for any outward signs of sexually transmitted diseases, Huyen. Do you mind if I ask if you’re a virgin?”

Huyen nodded, feeling tears prick at her eyes. She was embarrassed, but she trusted him. She swallowed hard and managed to squeak out a reply. “Yes, I’m a virgin.”

“I’m afraid I will need to verify that by inspecting your hymen,” Wilson told her with a rueful smile. “The agency wants to be able to tell its clients with absolute certainty that your virginity remains intact, and that means I have to sign off on it. Do you understand the necessity? Rest assured, your purity will be a definite point in your favor with any potential husband.”

Huyen nodded again, her cheeks flushing. She lay back on the examination table as Dr. Wilson spread her legs and began to examine her. His hands were cool and gentle as he parted her folds, and she felt a stinging sensation as he touched her. After a moment, he pulled back. “Your hymen is intact,” he said with a sigh of relief. “I’m sorry if that was uncomfortable for you. Now, I’ll need to take a blood and urine sample. Would you hold out your arm, please?”

Huyen looked up at him. “W-will it hurt?” she whispered.

Dr. Wilson shook his head. “Not at all. It’s just a pinprick, and it will be over very soon. You’ll barely feel it.” He took a small vial and a syringe from a nearby table and swabbed a patch of her skin with an alcohol pad. “On the count of three. One. Two…three.”

Huyen tensed as she felt a sharp prick, but it was indeed over quickly. The doctor then took a urine sample and conducted a Pap smear. Huyen’s mind raced as he worked, trying to calm her racing thoughts and nerves. After what seemed like an eternity, the doctor finally finished. He smiled warmly at her and offered her a tissue to wipe herself off.

“You’ve done very well, Huyen,” he said when she finished dressing. “We’ll test both samples in-house here at the agency and the results will help us decide whether to accept your application. I appreciate your cooperation. I know this wasn’t easy for you. You were very brave.”

Huyen felt a lump form in her throat. “Thank you, Doctor,” she whispered.

“I’m going to introduce you to Dr. Smith now,” Wilson continued. “She will evaluate your mental and emotional health and maturity, to ensure you are ready for a mature, healthy relationship. The evaluation will consist of a series of questions and scenarios. You must make sure to answer all her questions with absolute honesty.”

Dr. Smith, a tall, middle-aged woman with a kind face, entered the room. She offered her hand to Huyen, who took it with a trembling grip. “Hello, Huyen. It’s wonderful to meet you. I’m looking forward to getting to know you better.”

Huyen felt herself relax a fraction as Dr. Smith led her to another room with a couch and some comfortable chairs. “I want to assure you that everything we discuss today will be held in the strictest confidence. Your honesty is of the utmost importance. I’m here to help you, not to judge you. Don’t be afraid.”

Dr. Smith settled herself into a chair and invited Huyen to do the same. “First, I’d like to ask you some questions about your family and your upbringing. Can you tell me about your parents and your siblings, if you have any?”

Huyen nodded. “I have five younger siblings and two older ones. I am the oldest girl. My parents are very traditional and strict, especially with us girls. They expect us to marry well and have children of our own. My father is a rice farmer, like his father and grandfather for many generations. My mother is a homemaker, taking care of the house and us children. They both love us very much, but they can be quite strict.”

“So you’d say you have good relationships with your siblings and parents?”

“Yes, I do. I love them with all my heart,” Huyen said.

“Why become a mail-order bride then?”

Huyen hesitated. “It’s...complicated. My parents want me to marry well, but they also want me to stay close to home. They don’t want me to move far away. And as much as I love them, sometimes I feel…trapped. As if my life will always be the same. I want to see the world, experience new things, and meet new people. That is not a bad thing, is it?”

Dr. Smith nodded understandingly. “No, it’s not a bad thing at all. It’s natural for young people to want to explore and discover their place in the world. Your parents’ expectations can be difficult to balance, especially when you feel like you have different dreams for your life. But are you certain you’re ready for marriage? It’s a lifelong commitment, and a marriage to a man from another country is more challenging still. You would have to adapt to an entirely new culture, possibly for life. Does that frighten you?”

Huyen took a deep breath. “It terrifies me,” she admitted. “But I think...I think I’m also ready. I want to be with someone who loves me and accepts me for who I am. Someone who will cherish me and stand by my side through everything. I want to build a life together, start a family, and experience all the joys and challenges that come with it. I want to grow with my husband and learn from him, just as he learns from me. I know I am very young, but girls from my village get married at 18 all the time. I can cook and clean and I know all about caring for children. I know I would be a good wife, if..if my husband is patient with me.”

Dr. Smith smiled. “That’s a very mature outlook, Huyen. It sounds like you’ve given this a lot of thought. Now, let’s talk about your expectations for marriage. What do you think a good husband should be like? What qualities do you value in a partner? Do you prefer to be more submissive in a relationship?”

Huyen blushed. “I don’t think I should be too submissive. I want my husband to respect my opinions and treat me as an equal partner in our marriage. I want him to be kind, loving, and supportive. Someone who will stand by my side through thick and thin. I think it’s important that we communicate openly and honestly with each other. And of course, he should be faithful and trustworthy. I want to know that my husband will always be there for me, no matter what.”

“And you would support him in return? Our clients are very wealthy and successful men; if, for example, your husband wanted you to attend a formal dinner or some other event, would you go?”

Huyen nodded. “Of course. I would be happy to support my husband in any way I can. If he needs me to attend an event, I will go and make sure he is proud of me. I will dress up nicely and act like a proper lady, just as he expects me to. I will also help him with his work if he needs me to. I want to be a good wife and partner to him, just as he is to me.”

“Let’s run through some more scenarios. Let’s say your husband had a bad day at work, and perhaps denied a promotion he’d worked very hard to get. He comes home depressed, humiliated, and angry. How would you care for him?” Wilson asked.

Huyen thought for a moment. “I would listen to him. I would let him vent his feelings without interrupting or trying to fix everything. I would hold him, stroke his hair, and tell him that everything would be alright. I would make him his favorite dinner, pour him a glass of wine, and make sure he takes a warm bath. I would remind him of all the good things in his life, and that this setback is only temporary. I would reassure him that I am here for him and that together, we can overcome any obstacle.”

“And physical intimacy? How active would you like your husband to be with you? If he wants you, how would you like him to approach you?”

Huyen flushed bright red. “I...I don’t know,” she stammered. “I’ve never really…thought about that sort of thing before. I have no experience in it, so…I’m afraid I don’t know. I’m very sorry…”

“No need to apologize, Huyen. This is a perfectly natural part of a marriage. I understand that you may be feeling a bit uncomfortable discussing it, but you need to know that your husband will expect physical intimacy from you. He may want you to initiate it, or he may approach you first. It’s up to you to decide how you want to proceed in that situation. Just remember that communication is key; if you’re not comfortable with something, you should always feel free to express that to your husband. He should respect your boundaries and make sure that you both are comfortable with whatever decision you make together. But that brings to mind another question. Will it bother you if your husband is sexually experienced? Men have certain needs, and denying those needs is in many ways much more difficult for them than it is for women like us. Your future husband has likely known other women before meeting you. Would that bother you greatly?”

Huyen considered the question carefully. “I...I don’t think it would bother me. As long as he loves me and is faithful to me, that’s all that matters. I would not hold it against him.” She forced herself to meet Smith’s gaze. “As…as long as he is kind to me and loving, I will be loyal to him for all my days, and be by his side forever.”

Smith nodded thoughtfully. “It’s clear that you’re not the type to hold petty jealousy or possessiveness over someone, Huyen. That’s a rare quality in a woman, and it’s one that many men find incredibly attractive. You should be proud of yourself for that.”

Huyen blushed more deeply.

“How do you feel about children?”

Huyen’s face lit up. “I have always wanted children! I think being a mother would be the greatest joy in my life. I would love to experience the miracle of life growing inside me and to raise a child to be kind, loving, and strong. I would teach them about our culture, and my husband’s culture, and teach them to embrace both. I would take them on adventures with my husband, and show them all the wonderful things life has to offer.”

“What if your husband is religious?” Smith pressed. “Would you want him to pass his faith on to your children? Would you consider converting, if it was important to him?”

Huyen considered the question. She didn’t want to offend Smith, but she also didn’t want to lie. “I’m not religious myself,” she said carefully. “My parents are Buddhist, but I’ve never felt a strong connection to any particular faith. However, if my husband was religious, and if his faith brought him happiness and comfort, I would respect that. I wouldn’t want to stand in the way of his spiritual growth. As for converting, I would be open to it, but only if I felt it was truly right for me. As for our children, if they wished to explore religion or find their own path, I would support them in whatever they chose.”

“And if your husband insisted on raising them with his faith?”

Huyen considered the question for a moment. “I would respect his wishes,” she replied. “As long as he was gentle and loving in teaching them, and as long as it did not create a divide between us.”

Smith nodded thoughtfully. “I’m glad to hear that. It shows a great deal of maturity and understanding on your part. Now, let me ask you, Huyen: what sort of man do you want, in terms of nationality, physical characteristics, age, that sort of thing?”

Huyen bit her lip. “I…I think I would like an American husband,” she said hesitantly.

“Why? Not so long ago America and Vietnam were enemies.”

Huyen blushed. She knew her answer was not very good, but it was all she could think of. “I...I just feel like Americans are open-minded and adventurous. They value education and hard work, and they appreciate the beauty of different cultures. I think an American husband would be more open to learning about my culture and more willing to accept me for who I am.”

“Any preference on age?”

Huyen paused for a moment. “I...I think my husband should be older. Someone who has already lived a life, and has experience in the world. But not too much older. Perhaps ten or twelve years at most. He should still be young at heart and eager to explore new things with me.”

“So early thirties,” Smith said. “That’s not unusual at all. Many of our brides hope for an older, more experienced husband. They tend to feel more secure and protected by them, and they appreciate the wisdom they bring to the relationship. Now, physical appearance. What sort of man are you attracted to in terms of build, height, hair color, eye color, facial features, and so on?”

“Perhaps…perhaps blue eyes, and red or blonde hair?” Huyen said meekly.

Smith smiled. “I see. Well, it’s certainly not uncommon for our brides to find the color of a foreigner’s eyes and hair exotic. Would you like a very muscular, large man or a more toned, lean one?”

Huyen considered the question. “I...I think I would prefer a more toned, lean man. He should be strong and fit, but not so muscular that he intimidates me. I like the idea of feeling protected, but I also want to feel like I can easily wrap my arms around him and feel his warmth.”

“Absolutely.” Smith smiled. “Now, let me pose another scenario for you. Your husband’s father fought in the war, here in Vietnam. Perhaps he was imprisoned and treated very badly, so when your husband introduces you, his father becomes very hostile. How would you help your husband talk him around and establish a good relationship with him?”

Huyen was taken aback by this scenario. She didn’t know how she would react in such a situation. “I...I would try to understand his father’s perspective,” she said slowly. “I would listen to his story and show him compassion. I would tell him that war is a terrible thing, and no one deserves to be mistreated no matter which side they are on. I would also tell him that my husband is his son and that I love him and respect him for who he is. I would tell my father-in-law how brave he is for enduring all that he did, and how much I admire his strength. And most of all, I would show him that I am not his enemy. I would show him kindness and love no matter what he said to me.”

Smith nodded. “That’s a very compassionate response, Huyen. I’m glad to hear that. Now, let’s talk about something a bit more lighthearted. If you could choose any destination in the world for your honeymoon, where would you go?”

“I have always wanted to see some of America’s national parks,” Huyen said. “Perhaps…perhaps a road trip, like in the movies. The idea of my husband and I heading down the road into the horizon, hand in hand, exploring the vast wilderness and the beauty of nature together... sounds so romantic to me. We could visit places like Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Zion...the list goes on. We could camp under the stars, hike through the trails, and maybe even take a dip in a hot spring. It would be the perfect way to start our new life together, don’t you think?”

Smith nodded. “That sounds wonderful, Huyen. I’m sure many American men would love to take their Vietnamese brides on such a trip for their honeymoon. It’s a unique and special experience that they would cherish forever. Now, let me ask you another question: how would you handle conflict with your husband? If you fought, how would you reconcile with him?”

Huyen took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. “I would first give myself time to calm down and think about what happened. Then, I would talk to my husband calmly and respectfully. I would listen to his side of the story and try to understand where he’s coming from. I would apologize if I was in the wrong, and I would accept his apology if he was at fault. We would discuss our issues openly and honestly, and work together to find a solution that makes both of us happy. I believe that communication is key in any relationship and that if we can talk through our problems, we can overcome anything together.”

“And if your husband lost his temper during the argument? Perhaps he said something he regrets, something that hurt you. Would you forgive him?”

Huyen nodded slowly. “Yes, I would forgive him. I believe that everyone makes mistakes, and sometimes people say things they don’t mean in the heat of the moment. If he truly regrets what he said and shows me that he cares about my feelings, then I would forgive him. Forgiveness is important in any relationship, especially marriage. It doesn’t mean that we forget what happened, but it allows us to move forward together, stronger than before. My grandmother often says that most problems can simply be solved by listening, and I believe her.”

“And if your husband has children from a previous marriage? Would that bother you?”

Huyen shook her head. “Not at all. I would see them as an extension of our family, and I would love them as my own. Children bring joy and laughter to any home. I would embrace the opportunity to be a mother figure to them.”

Smith smiled. “You have a big heart, Huyen.”

Huyen smiled shyly. “Thank you, Doctor.”

“Do you enjoy cooking?”

“Oh yes! Cooking is one of my favorite things to do. I’ve always loved experimenting with new recipes and flavors. I think it’s a wonderful way to show someone you care about them. I believe that cooking and sharing food is one of the best ways to build a strong relationship and bond with someone.”

“Indeed.” Dr. Smith jotted down her words and rose from her seat. “Thank you for speaking with me today, I have everything I need. Dr. Wilson and I are going to submit our notes and our conclusions to the director, who will make a final decision on whether to accept your application. In the meantime, please take a seat back in the lobby and we’ll come get you when a decision has been made.”

Huyen nodded and followed Dr. Smith back to the lobby where she took a seat, her hands clasped demurely in her lap. As the doctor left the room, Huyen took a deep breath and exhaled slowly, her shoulders relaxing slightly. She glanced around the small waiting room, admiring the framed photographs of greenery and waterfalls and reading framed testimonials from girls who’d taken the plunge before her. They seemed so happy in pictures with their new husbands, Huyen thought.

Time passed slowly, and Huyen found herself fidgeting in her seat. She glanced at her watch for what seemed like the hundredth time when the door finally opened and Ly entered the lobby.

Huyen’s heart began pounding in her chest.

“Huyen,” Ly declared. “After getting the results of your blood and other tests back, and based on Dr. Smith and Dr. Wilson’s recommendations, Ever After Brides has decided to accept your application! Congratulations!”

Huyen was stunned. “R-really?”

Ly grinned. “Yes! We believe that you would make a wonderful bride to some lucky man! Now, let’s go talk in my office. We’ve got a lot to cover and there’s no time to waste!”

Huyen felt a mixture of excitement and nervousness as she followed Ly to her office. She couldn’t believe it! She felt dazed, as though she were dreaming, as she took a seat across from Ly and tried to calm her raving thoughts.

“Ever After Brides was founded by a husband and wife team who were deeply in love, but were separated by a great distance,” Ly explained. “They wanted to help others find the same kind of love and happiness that they shared. Over the years, we’ve grown into one of the most exclusive and respected mail-order bride agencies in the world. We have branch offices all over the world, from Tokyo to London. We pride ourselves on our discretion and on maintaining a high success rate for all the couples we match together. The men who use our services are handsome, successful, and sophisticated.” Ly reached into her desk and removed a binder filled with photographs. “Take a look at some of our past clients. These are the sorts of men we do business with.”

Huyen took the binder, her heart pounding with excitement. The photographs were all of handsome-looking men, ranging from their late twenties to early forties. Some of them were in office settings wearing expensive-looking suits, while others were standing in exotic locations or near famous historical or natural landmarks. Each man had a warm, kind smile on his face, and it was easy to see why they would be considered desirable partners.

As she flipped through the pages, Ly continued, “Most of our clients are from the US or Western Europe. They are doctors, corporate executives, real estate moguls, and more. They come from different walks of life, but they all have one thing in common: they’re all looking for someone special to share their lives with. Some are widowers, some are divorced, and some have never been married. But they all agree that women like you, women with traditional family values who want to build a home, make the best wives and partners.”

Huyen’s heart fluttered and she nodded.

“But,” Ly continued. “What makes our agency truly unique is that we are exclusively able to ensure our couples are matched without long delays. Once you and your future husband agree to be married, we will be able to procure a green card for you. Do you know what is, Huyen?”

Huyen nodded. “It’s a permit that allows someone to live and work in the United States permanently.”

“Exactly. Even when one goes through the normal application process to get one, it can be very expensive. The way our agency does it, using a fast-track program with the U.S. State Department, is more expensive still. This is why only high-class, upscale men can use our services. Would you believe, Huyen, that a man might pay our agency a fee of $100,000 or more to have you as his bride?”

Huyen’s eyes widened and she gasped in shock. “A hundred thousand dollars?” she whispered. “But that’s so much money...” It was more than she could even imagine. Even her father, who owned a small farm, would never come even close to earning that much money. The idea that someone would be willing to pay so much for her hand in marriage filled her with a mixture of disbelief and awe.

Ly smiled. “Yes, that’s right. But you see, Huyen, the men who use our service know the value of what they are getting. They know that the women we match them with are truly special. They understand that they are investing not only in a relationship but also in the possibility of building a life together. They are willing to pay a premium for that opportunity, and they see it as an investment in their happiness. And while it may seem like a lot of money, remember that these men are successful and established. For them, $100,000 is a small price to pay for finding the love of their life.”

Huyen couldn’t imagine that kind of wealth. “Only a small price,” she repeated, dazed. “I…cannot imagine having so much money.”

Ly nodded understandingly. “I know it can be difficult to comprehend, especially if you come from a more modest background like you do. But let me assure you, Huyen, the men who use our service truly appreciate the women they find through us. They are not merely looking for someone to take care of them or be their trophy wife. They are seeking a partner, a companion, and a friend. Someone who will share in their successes and help them build a future together. They see the value in finding someone like you, who has the same traditional values and respect for family that they do.”

Huyen nodded silently, still reeling.

“We are the best in the business,” Ly went on. “And so only the best men can be our clients. And the best part is that they are the ones who pay for the privilege of using our services, not young women like you. This will not cost you a cent. By that same token, however, we are unfortunately unable to accept many of the girls who want to apply. Our clients are the best, and they will accept only the best. This is why our application process is so intensive and time-consuming; only a small number of girls each year meet our rigorous criteria for applicants, just as only a small number of men meet our rigorous criteria for potential clients. If, at any point, you’d fallen short of any one of those standards, we’d have had to send you home. Does that make sense?”

Huyen nodded, still trying to absorb it all. It made sense, though she felt sorry for the girls who were turned away. Ly was running a business, not a charity.

“Now,” said Ly. “We’ll need some high-quality pictures of you to show to our clients and build your portfolio. Thankfully, we have a wonderful and highly qualified photographer here on our staff who is very good at his job. Would you like to meet him?”

Huyen nodded shyly. She had never had a professional photograph taken before; the thought of it made her feel a little nervous, but also a little excited. She followed Ly through a set of double doors and into a large, well-lit room. In the center of the room was a large camera on a tripod, surrounded by lights and reflectors. A tall, slender man with a kind face and a neatly trimmed beard stepped forward to greet her.

“Hello, Huyen. I’m Quang, the photographer here at our studio.”

“H-hello,” Huyen stammered.

“You’re very beautiful, and I want to capture the beauty for our clients to see,” Quang said. “We have a large wardrobe filled with outfits and you can choose any of them you want.” He gestured at a rack of expensive-looking clothes off to one side. “Take your time and pick out a few that you like. We have all day to do this. A picture is worth one thousand words and I want to make yours count.” He paused. “Some of our mail-order brides in the past have requested to have one or two pictures taken wearing very little, and in a few cases, nothing at all. If you would like to do something like that, I am happy to arrange it, but there is no pressure when we are the other. This is about you and what makes you feel beautiful and you are in charge.”

Huyen turned bright red at the thought of posing nude. It was terrifying, shameful even, and yet…wasn’t she here because she wanted to break out of her shell?

“I-if I pose nude,” she whispered. “Will the pictures be on the Internet?”

“No. We have a very strict policy about privacy here at the studio. The pictures will only be seen by our clients who have signed a non-disclosure agreement. They will never be posted online or shared with anyone outside of our organization. It’s important that you feel comfortable and at ease while we’re shooting, so you don’t have to worry about that.”

“Then…then…” Huyen sucked in a breath, shaking from head to toe. “Then I w-w-would like to try. P-posing…you know. I-I’ve never done anything like this before, so if you could help me feel comfortable...I’d appreciate it.”

Quang smiled gently. “Of course, Huyen. I understand that this is a big step for you. I’ll make sure that you feel safe and comfortable throughout the entire process. Why don’t you go ahead and pick out some outfits that you like, and then we can get started with the first round of photos? We will do the nude ones first so we can get the hard part out of the way. Sound good?”

Huyen nodded, still trembling a little. She walked over to the rack of clothes and started browsing through the various outfits. Most of them were dresses, but there were also a few sets of lingerie and a few pairs of high heels. After a moment’s hesitation, she picked out a red ao dai with gold trim.

Quang watched her carefully, making sure she felt comfortable with her choices. When she was finished, he nodded approvingly. “That’s a great selection,” he said. “Now, let’s get started with the first round of photos. Go ahead and undress, and I’ll step outside. Call me in when you’re ready.”

Huyen bit her lip and nodded, her heart racing. She took a deep breath and started undressing, folding her clothes neatly on a chair. She was relieved when Quang left the room, giving her some privacy. Once she was naked, she stepped in front of the camera, feeling self-conscious and exposed, her hands over her small breasts and privates.

“I…I’m ready,” she said, her voice cracking.

Quang returned, a thoughtful expression on his face. “You’re beautiful, Huyen,” he said softly. “Just be yourself and let your natural beauty shine through. Okay?”

Huyen nodded, her heart still racing, but feeling a little more confident with his encouragement. She took a deep breath and stepped closer to the camera, her bare feet cool against the marble floor. Quang positioned her carefully, adjusting her posture and her hands until he was satisfied. Then he gave her a reassuring smile before retreating behind the camera. “Just relax and let your body move naturally,” he whispered. “Turn just a little to the right and thrust your chest out a bit.”

She did as he said, feeling awkward and exposed but also oddly exhilarated. As she moved, the light from the studio danced across her skin, making her feel both beautiful and terrified. Quang murmured instructions, guiding her through a series of poses, some subtle and others more provocative. He had her arch her back, lean forward, and even kneel on the floor. Each time, he encouraged her with words of praise, telling her how beautiful she looked and how well she was doing.

“Now lie down and part your legs a little to expose your sex. Let the client see how confident you are. Tilt your head back, close your eyes a bit, and bite your lip, like you’re thinking of something sexy.”

Huyen obeyed, feeling her heart race even faster as she exposed herself to the camera. The marble floor was cold against her bare skin, and she could feel the warm air from the studio brushing against her. Quang moved around her, taking photos from different angles, and she tried to focus on his quiet instructions and not on how exposed she felt.

“That’s it, Huyen. You’re doing great,” he murmured, his voice soothing. “Just incredible. Our clients are going to do a double take when they see these photographs.”

“R-really?” Huyen asked hopefully. She’d never thought of herself as particularly beautiful.

Quang nodded, moving in closer to adjust her position. “Absolutely. And you’ve been so brave too. Now, before we move on, if you’re okay with it, I would like to film a small two or three-minute video of you, where you can talk to your potential matches directly and tell them a little about yourself, who you are, and why they should pick you. As with your photographs, you can do it nude or in lingerie, or you can get dressed first. Some of our brides prefer one, some the other. Again, it’s completely up to you and what you decide you’re comfortable with.”

Huyen hesitated for a moment. The idea of talking directly to potential matches was both terrifying and exhilarating. But she trusted Quang’s judgment and knew that the video would be an important part of her profile. “Okay,” she said finally. “I’ll do it…I’ll do it nude. I w-want them to see that I am willing to…push my boundaries to find the right man.”

“I’m sure they’ll appreciate that, Huyen. It shows confidence and a willingness to connect on a deeper level. Okay, let me get set up and then I’ll start filming. Just remember to act naturally. Talk as you always do and make sure to keep eye contact with the camera.”

Huyen nodded, her heart racing. She closed her eyes for a moment, trying to calm herself. When she opened them again, Quang was already setting up the camera, his movements fluid and practiced. He gestured for her to take a seat on a small stool in front of him.

“And in 3…2…1…go.”

Huyen sucked in a breath. “H-hello,” she said. “I am Huyen, and I am from the village of Trai along the Mekong Delta in southern Vietnam. I am eighteen years old and come from a family of rice farmers. I wish to be a mail-order bride because…because I want to fall in love and see the world outside the small village where I grew up. I am looking for a man who is kind and gentle, but also strong and confident. A man who will love me and cherish me for the rest of his life. If that is you, I promise to be a good wife, to cook and clean for you, and to make sure that you always come home to a warm and loving embrace. I want to have children together and build a life together, full of laughter and happiness, and I hope you will consider me for this wonderful opportunity. I am hardworking, loyal, and an excellent cook. I think I would be a most excellent wife for you, and as you can see, I…I am willing to go outside my comfort zone if it means making my husband happy.” She bowed deeply. “Please choose me.”

Quang nodded, looking satisfied. “Perfect, Huyen. That was wonderful.”

“I hope so. I fear I simply looked foolish,” Huyen admitted.

Quang chuckled, shaking his head. “Oh, no. You were stunning, Huyen. Stunning. Now, why don’t we move on and switch to the ao dai?”

Huyen nodded, feeling a blush creep up her neck. She stood up and slipped the garment on, marveling at how it clung to her curves.

“You look beautiful, Huyen,” Quang said with a smile, stepping back to admire her. “Now, I have a tea set prop that I like to use,” he said. “When I place it in front of you, lower your head a little and look just a bit to your left, and pick up the pot as if you’re about to pour. It will make you look very demure and domestic, which are qualities our clients want in their brides.”

Huyen carefully positioned the tea set as Quang instructed her, feeling a little nervous but also excited to see the final product. She lowered her head, looking just to the left of the camera, and placed her hands on the handle of the pot. Quang directed her through several different poses, each one more flattering than the last.

Finally, he stepped back and nodded in approval. “Perfect. Just perfect. Now, let’s do another pose, this time with a Christmas theme. Have you ever celebrated Christmas, Huyen?”

Huyen shook her head. “No, I have not. But I would love to learn and celebrate it with my husband. Christmas must be a very special time for families.”

“In the West, Christmas is a time for family and love, and of course, giving gifts to one another. They decorate trees and their homes with lights and ornaments. It is a very beautiful and magical time when families come together, and we want our clients to see you in a setting like that. A Christmas-themed photo will accentuate the family values you bring to the table.”

Huyen nodded, still looking a bit confused but eager to please. Quang led her over to a small table covered in a red and green cloth. Two assistants brought in a large fake Christmas tree, adorned with colorful lights and ornaments. He handed her a garland and showed her how to drape it around the table. Then he gave her a few strands of silver “icicle” ornaments to place along the edge of the table.

“Now, I want you to sit here, and I’ll take a seat across from you. When I put this small gift on the table, you can pretend to be surprised and delighted. Just reach out, pick it up, and hold it to your chest with a big smile on your face.”

Huyen nodded, feeling a little more at ease with each pose. She sat down on the chair and waited for Quang to position himself across from her. He placed a small, wrapped box on the table, and she couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation build within her. As he signaled for her to go ahead, she reached out and gently picked up the gift, her hands trembling slightly with excitement. Her heart fluttered as she imagined what might be inside.

With a bright smile on her face, she held the box to her chest, feeling the warmth spread through her body. This was exactly the reaction Quang had been hoping for. He clicked a few more photos, capturing the moment of surprise and delight on her face.

“Yes! That’s perfect!” He exclaimed. “Exquisite! Now, stand and take one of the ornaments. Act as though you’re about to hang it on the tree.”

Huyen did as she was told, carefully selecting a shiny silver ornament and holding it in her hand. She stood up, feeling a little awkward at first, but Quang quickly guided her through the motions. He positioned her in front of the tree, her back to the table, and showed her how to reach up and pretend to hang the ornament on one of the lower branches.

“Good. Just like that…yes! Wonderful!” The camera clicked over and over. “Now, just one more scenario. We need our clients to see that you are smart as well as beautiful. To that end, and because you said you wanted an American husband, let’s do some shoots with you in a library setting, looking at books.”

His assistants quickly removed the Christmas props and brought in some faux bookshelves, along with a folding table and a chair. Books were laid on top of it, though Huyen could understand what they said since they were in English.

“What do those books say?” she asked.

Quang chuckled. “They are all about learning English, my dear. This is how you will impress your American husband. Now, let’s begin. I want you to sit here, and I’ll take a seat across from you. As I pretend to read a book, you can simply look at them as if they are the most interesting thing you’ve ever seen. You can even open one up and pretend to read a little bit. Just act naturally.”

Huyen nodded, taking a seat across from the fake bookshelf. She reached out to touch one of the books, running her fingers over the spine. It felt smooth and substantial in her hands as she opened it.

Quan began snapping off shots right away.

“That’s perfect!” he said. “You look so smart and studious. This is exactly what our clients will want to see. Now, let’s do one more with you standing and pretending to reach for a book on the top shelf.”

Huyen stood up, stretching her arms high above her head as she pretended to reach for a book on the fake shelf. She smiled at Quang, her eyes sparkling with excitement and anticipation. The camera clicked again, capturing her every move.

At length, Quan checked his watch and gave her an apologetic smile. “I’m afraid that’s all the time we have for today. You’ve been wonderful, Huyen. I think these photos are going to be stunning. You’re going to have many potential suitors. Thank you so much for your time and effort. I know this wasn’t easy for you.”

Huyen bowed. “I should be thanking you. You were very gentle and patient with me. I wouldn’t have had the courage if not for you.”

“You are most welcome,” Quan said warmly. “Now, I think Ly has a few more things to go over with you before you leave. I’ll walk you back to her office.”

Huyen followed him out of the studio, her heart racing with excitement. As they walked down the hallway, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. She had done it; she had survived the photo shoot. And not only that, but she had done a great job. The photos were going to be amazing.

Quan led her to Ly’s office where they found the older woman pouring over some papers at her desk. “Ah, Huyen. I see you’ve finished your shoot with Quan. How did it go?”

Huyen smiled shyly. “It was wonderful, thank you. Quan was so kind and patient with me. The photos turned out beautifully.”

“I’m not surprised,” Ly said with a wink. “He is an artist at his craft. And now that we have some excellent visuals of you, we can begin putting your portfolio together to share with clients we believe might be a good match. Each time one shows interest, we will send you a copy of their portfolio by mail, so keep an eye on your mailbox.”

“When will that happen?” Huyen asked.

“There’s no set time frame,” Ly explained. We take great care in finding the right match for each of our brides and vice versa, and that process can vary greatly from one person to another. While we will do everything in our power to find you your first match as quickly as possible, there is no guarantee when it will happen. It could be tomorrow, or it could be in six months. Here at Ever After Brides, we pride ourselves on quality, and quality takes time. Do you understand?”

Huyen nodded, feeling both relieved and anxious. She knew that she was in good hands with Ly and Quan, but the waiting was still difficult. She wished she could just meet her American husband right away and start their new life together.

“And…if I choose one? If I choose one to be my husband?”

“If you and a client both agree to be married, we will begin the process of procuring a green card for you from the United States government. Normally this could take years, but through the special expedited application process I told you about earlier, we will be able to acquire one for you in two to six months. More than anything else, this is what makes our agency truly unique. Once you have your green card, we get you a plane ticket to go be with your new husband and send you on your way!”

“Just like that?” Huyen asked.

Ly smiled reassuringly. “Yes, just like that. And remember, we will be with you every step of the way. We will provide transportation to the airport, and make sure you are prepared. Speaking of which…”

Ly reached below her desk and hefted a huge stack of books, pamphlets, and magazines onto her desk with a grunt of effort. “I want you to take these reference materials home with you today and start studying all of them. These cover a wide range of topics, from American culture and customs to basic overviews of each of the fifty states you might end up living in, covering their geography, weather, history, that sort of thing. I know it sounds tedious, but this is all very important information, Huyen. You have a duty to your future husband to be as prepared as possible when you eventually get on the plane to meet him. America is very different from Vietnam and you need to know what sorts of cultural differences to expect and how to adapt to them. There is also a copy of our agency handbook in there somewhere. This will outline our expectations for you as a bride-to-be and explain the process in more detail. Finally, we offer free English language classes here at our branch office four times a week for all our brides. I strongly encourage you to take advantage of them.”

Huyen nodded, feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness. Taking care of her appearance and learning about America had become her top priorities. She was determined to make her future husband happy and proud to have her as his wife. The thought of finally meeting him filled her with anticipation. “I will not disappoint you,” she said firmly. “I will learn everything I can about America and my future husband, and I will be the best wife I can be. Thank you for giving me this opportunity.”

Ly smiled warmly at Huyen. “You’re very welcome. I have every confidence that you will make an excellent bride for some very lucky man. Now, why don’t we take a quick look at some of these materials together, and I can answer any remaining questions you might have.”

Huyen nodded, absorbing this information. “Do Americans have a…fetish…for women like us?” she asked quietly. “Will I be seen as an outsider, or…or arm candy?”

Ly’s expression turned serious. “It is true that many Westerners find women from places like Vietnam very beautiful and exotic. But it is important to remember that you will not be going there as an object of someone’s sexual fantasies. You are going there as an equal partner in a loving relationship. Your husband will be someone who respects you and values your intelligence, your culture, and your unique perspective on the world. He will see you as his wife and as the mother of his children. You must maintain your self-respect and confidence in yourself, as these qualities will be important in any relationship, regardless of cultural differences.”

“But not everyone will feel the same way,” Huyen finished quietly.

Ly reached over and took her hand. “You’re right, Huyen. Not everyone will appreciate you as your husband does. And there may be people who are uncomfortable with the cultural differences between you. But I believe that if you and your husband are committed to each other, you can overcome these challenges together. It’s important to remember that love is the most powerful force in the world, and it can help bridge even the widest gaps.”

Huyen considered that, her expression thoughtful. “What about English?” she asked. “ I don’t know any at all, And I have heard it is a very difficult language to learn. Will I be able to learn it quickly enough so that I can communicate with my husband when I go to meet him?”

Ly smiled reassuringly. “Don’t worry, Huyen. English is a difficult language to learn, but with hard work and dedication, you’ll be surprised at how quickly you can pick it up. Your husband, being an educated man, will also be more than happy to help you learn the language. As for communication, it’s important to remember that English is widely spoken in the world, and many people, especially in larger cities, are bilingual or even trilingual. So even if you’re still learning, you’ll find that most people will be understanding and patient with you.”

“I hope so. I do not want to look like an ignorant person.” Huyen bit her lip.

Ly gave her a reassuring smile. “Trust me, you won’t. Your husband will be proud of you, no matter what. And if there are times when you struggle or feel embarrassed, just remember that everyone goes through that in the beginning. The important thing is to keep trying and not give up. Many women have walked this same path before you, and all of them have found everlasting happiness.”

The conversation continued in this vein for a while longer, with Ly answering Huyen’s questions and offering her words of encouragement. Hours passed before the older woman checked her watch. “My goodness, it’s getting late! We had better send you home before it gets dark. Please allow us to pay for your bus ticket, Huyen. We will be in touch, and remember: keep an eye on your mail and read over everything I’ve given you.” She handed her business card. “ When you receive a match that you want to move forward with, call me, And we will begin the process of securing your green card at once. Do you have a cell phone?”

Huyen shook her head. “No, but my village has a payphone.”

“We can work with that. You have my number, so please don’t hesitate to call if you need anything at all. Remember, I’m here to help you. Safe travels back to your village, and I look forward to hearing from you soon. Goodbye for now, my dear.”

Huyen stood and bowed deeply. “Thank you, Ly. I will do my best to learn English quickly and be a good wife to my husband. I am very grateful to you for all your help and I will not let you down!”

Ly smiled warmly. “I know you won’t, Huyen. You have a kind heart and a strong spirit. Those are the two most important qualities for any wife to have. Now go home, rest well, and study hard. We’ll be in touch soon.”