Julian looked like he wanted to stop me, but he didn’t.
“I can’t marry someone when I don’t know who they are.”
My hands shook.
The church was nearly silent when I returned.
The priest approached. “Would you like a few more minutes?”
I looked at the flowers, candles, and guests who had crossed oceans for a wedding that no longer existed.
“There won’t be a ceremony today.”
Whispers moved through the church.
Julian stood pale and silent.
Dad stood behind me, carrying guilt heavier than age.
“There won’t be a ceremony today.”
I took one long breath, lifted my dress, and walked away with Elise beside me.
I didn’t feel abandoned or broken.