Kara, my fiancee’s younger sister, had always been spoiled. Her parents adored her, and she always got her way because it was easier than resisting. I’d usually stay out of it—I cared about her brother, Colin.
The wedding was set for a restaurant, but with only three days to go, a burst pipe forced its closure. All other venues were unavailable since it was peak season. Kara and her mom shifted their gaze to me—or rather, to my backyard. Kara clapped her hands: “This is perfect! We only have 2 days. YOU DON’T MIND, RIGHT??”
My home, though simple, was hard-earned. I’d bought it before Colin. The yard was my retreat—I painted the fence, set the stones, grew my mother’s favorite roses. Every bud felt like reaching her.
Hosting the wedding there was not what I wanted, but I felt trapped. I consented, so long as nothing in my garden was disturbed. Then, I left to complete tasks for Kara.
After two days, I came back and stood motionless.
MY YARD WAS DEVASTATED. The fence was missing, the flower beds ruined, roots dug up. My precious roses, planted for my mother, were chopped up, used on Kara’s archway and scattered on tables. Heavy furnishings gouged the lawn.
Kara stood among it all, coffee and tablet in hand. I hurried to her.
“DON’T YOU LOVE IT?” she greeted me.
“The space is more open now. The roses look stunning on the archway.”
I felt sick: “You demolished my yard… you promised…”
She rolled her eyes. “They’re just flowers. It’s MY wedding. I’LL DO WHATEVER I WANT.”
I looked for Colin. His response? A smile. “DANI, CALM DOWN! It’s her day. You can redo it later.”
Their laughter filled the ruins of my hard work and mother’s memory.
I didn’t yell or argue. But I didn’t forget or forgive. I let it pass—temporarily. For the ceremony the next day, I didn’t stop the wedding. I attended, gift in hand—a statement that all choices come with a price.
When present time arrived with the guests, I brought out my large box, bright red wrapping, perfect bow. Kara, eager, rubbed her hands. She expected something extravagant.
“Let’s see what’s inside!” she announced.
She tore open the box, pulled off the lid—and instantly, her smile disappeared. THE ENTIRE ROOM WENT SILENT.
