“Yes.”
The answer surprised her.
I continued.
“I’m also glad I saw you married.
Both things can be true.”
Lauren looked down.
“Do you forgive me?”
That question would have been easier if she hadn’t asked it.
I could have said yes.
We could have embraced.
She could have returned to her reception relieved, and I could have gone home with every painful conversation still waiting.
But I didn’t want to build another version of our relationship around saying the comfortable thing.
“I love you.”
I answered.