Derick stared at me, stunned, still watching as I walked away. When I got home, I began packing my things, calling for a courier to take the boxes. Four years of my life, and all I had barely filled two boxes. When Derick returned later, he arrived just as the courier was leaving with my things. He looked alarmed, as if panicked by what he saw.
“What’s with the boxes? Why’d you call a courier service?”
My reply came easily, as casual as could be. “Just sending some gifts to my parents.”
He opened his mouth to ask more, but right then, his phone lit up with a notification—a game invite. Instantly, his attention shifted.
I knew it was from Becky. She’d posted just minutes earlier, hinting at a wild night of singlehood for Derick before he “settled down,” planning two straight days of gaming with him to celebrate his “last days of freedom.”
Derick said he’d be out on a business trip for two days and didn’t want to be disturbed before the wedding. I didn’t call him out; I just mumbled an acknowledgment and shut the door.
On the wedding day, there was no bridal procession, no family or friends in attendance. The large, old mansion wasn’t decorated at all. Not a single thing represent wedding on sight. When I arrived in a simple white dress, I found the lively Larsen family gathered around Becky, chatting animatedly. They glanced at me—disinterested, even. No one made an effort to approach, especially Mrs. Montgomery who was sitting at the head of the table.
In the past, I would’ve gone out of my way to win her approval, even if it meant enduring countless humiliations. But now, I understood: if Derick truly wanted to marry me, he wouldn’t allow me to be treated with such disdain.
Derick came down the stairs, a smudge of lipstick still visible on his collar. Everyone noticed, and mocking glances immediately turned toward me. Ignoring them, I took a picture of the scene to send to my parents. Derick didn’t seem to care either; he simply looked me up and down and asked, “Why aren’t you wearing your wedding dress?”
I stared at him in silence, and it took him a moment to realize he wasn’t dressed for the occasion either.