Chapter 5 — What I Had Given Up

I had worn a rented, off-the-rack dress that pinched at the ribs, so that I could keep sending them money for their mortgage.

I had made the centerpieces myself.

I had given up the wedding I wanted in order to keep my family afloat.

And they had not even come.

At nine that morning, an hour before I was to walk the aisle, I sent one last message to the family group chat. I hope someone is on the way.