I wanted to believe she was lying. But seeing his name printed on the document made everything fall into place.
After a long silence, I said, “Come to the wedding.”
“What? You’re still going to marry him?”
“Just come if you want your money.”
I walked out already knowing exactly how I would deal with Jack’s plan.
The church was full on the wedding day.
When the doors opened, every head turned to look at me.
At the altar, Jack took my hands.
“You look incredible,” he whispered.
I smiled. He looked confident—and that was exactly what I needed.
The officiant began, “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today—”
“Wait, please.” I turned to my maid of honor.
She handed me the envelope. I opened it and pulled out the document.
Jack’s face drained of color.
“You don’t love me. You owe your ex-wife money, and you thought marrying me would solve that,” I said.
A gasp echoed through the room.
Jack shook his head. “That’s fake. Where did you get that?”
I looked toward the back. “Laura?”
Heads turned.
Laura stood.
Shock rippled through the guests.
“I saw you with her the day you asked for more time,” I continued. “I followed her. She told me everything.”
“It’s not—” he turned toward Laura. “You ruined everything.”
She stepped forward. “I told you to get a job, Jack. You thought this would be easier.”
I slipped the ring off my finger and placed it into his pocket.
Then I turned to face the room. “This wedding is off.”
I stepped down from the altar and picked up Diana.
“Mom? Was that the plan?”
I exhaled softly. “Yes, baby. But everything is okay now.”
And it truly was—because the only person who mattered was safe in my arms.
Maybe someday, I would find love again.
But next time, I wouldn’t be so easily charmed—or deceived.
Note: This story is a work of fiction inspired by real events. Names, characters, and details have been altered. Any resemblance is coincidental. The author and publisher disclaim accuracy, liability, and responsibility for interpretations or reliance. All images are for illustration purposes only.
