The wedding passed in a blur.
It took place at my parents’ country club — elegant but cold. The food was forgettable, the atmosphere stiff.
Claire wore a simple dress. Her parents sat quietly at the back, holding hands — proud but out of place.
Her mother looked familiar, though I couldn’t place her.
My own parents smiled for the cameras, but their expressions faded quickly.
Claire’s mother hugged me warmly. “Thank you for loving her,” she whispered — even though she knew the truth.
Her father shook my hand. “Take care of each other.”
After the reception, I drove Claire home.
The silence in the car was heavy.
Inside, I gestured toward the guest room. “You can stay there. We only need to act married in front of my parents.”
She nodded… but didn’t move.
Instead, she reached into her purse.
“Promise you won’t scream when I show you this.”
She handed me a faded photograph, her hands trembling.
“My mom and I figured you might not remember right away… but before you panic, just look at her first.”
