I turned to go. Behind me, Victor muttered, “She’s probably just suffering from pre-wedding anxiety. Don’t argue with a patient.”
Through the glass, I saw him feed Calla a cream puff, their hands still entwined. They looked perfect together.
That evening, his voice message came: Amara, don’t be angry. I’m busy with work, and I still have to care for both of you. Please try to understand. We’ll be husband and wife soon—I hope you’ll be more considerate.
His words were slurred, a little drunk, a little self-pitying.
I didn’t want to listen anymore. In his world, he was always the one who suffered most.
Fine. I would grant his wish—and lighten his burden completely.
The day before the wedding, Victor finally lost his temper and called me.
“Amara, have you confirmed the wedding procedures…?”
I hummed softly, folding clothes into my suitcase for the flight to the snowy mountains. “Yeah. I’ve checked everything.”
Victor let out a breath, visibly relieved. “That’s good… that’s good. I’ll pick you up tomorrow.”
The next morning, I slipped into my wedding dress. Not the one he had chosen for me—mine.
A car engine roared outside, followed by the shrill ring of my phone. Victor’s voice came hurried and anxious.
“Amara, Calla twisted her ankle. I’m taking her to the hospital, so I can’t pick you up. Just head to the venue first—it’s just a formality. I’ll be there later.”
“Okay,” I answered calmly.
He hesitated, sensing something strange in my tone. “You… aren’t angry?”
“No. Go ahead.”
When the call ended, he exhaled in relief and reached over to Calla in the passenger seat. “Does it hurt? Hold on, we’ll be at the hospital soon.”
Tears shimmered in her eyes. “I’m sorry… it’s my fault. I made you leave your bride waiting.”
“Don’t say that.” He clasped her hand. “You’re hurt. How could I just ignore you?”
But unease pricked at him. My voice had been too calm. Maybe Amara has finally come around, he reassured himself. I’ll make it up to her during the honeymoon.
At the Golden Coast beach, the Hale family’s guests filled the seats. But none of my family or friends were present.
Victor arrived with Calla and froze at the sight. Panic struck. “No… Amara didn’t realize the venue had changed…”
He called me. No answer. Again and again, checking his watch, his face darkening. Finally, I picked up.
“Amara! Why aren’t you here yet? Everyone’s waiting!”
I gazed through the church window, where snowflakes swirled in the wind. “I’ve been here for a while.”
