I removed my earrings.

Placed them beside the engagement ring’s velvet box.

Then sat on the edge of my bed.

I wasn’t ready to cancel the wedding.

But I was beginning to understand something I’d avoided.

If Ethan couldn’t challenge his mother when she humiliated mine, how could I expect him to challenge her when the company faced serious questions about money?

And if he wanted me to remain quiet professionally, what kind of marriage was he asking me to enter?

I knew those questions deserved answers before the ceremony.