Chapter 8
The bride was still holding the ring.
Her hands trembled.
She looked at Daniel.
“You let her accuse that child.”
Daniel's eyes dropped.
Bernice immediately stepped in.
“This got out of hand.”
Adria turned toward her.
“You slapped him.”
Bernice looked away.
“I thought he had stolen it.”
“You didn't know.”
“I was protecting the wedding.”
“No,” Adria said. “You were protecting your pride.”
Bernice's face reddened.
Guests watched silently.
The groom finally spoke.
“I didn't mean for this to happen.”
The bride stared at him.
“You stole my ring.”
“I was going to return it.”
“When?”
Daniel couldn't answer.
“Why?”
He looked toward Bernice.
That tiny movement did not escape Adria.
Nor did it escape the bride.
“Why did you look at her?”
Daniel shook his head.
“It's not what you think.”
Bernice stepped forward.
“Daniel is under pressure.”
The bride's expression changed.
“From whom?”
Bernice said nothing.
Adria watched them both.
There was more between them.
She didn't know what yet.
But she knew enough.
Callum tugged at her sleeve.
“Mom.”
“Yes?”
“Can we go home?”
Adria looked down at him.
“Yes.”
She had no reason to remain.
She had defended her son.
The truth had come out.
But before they could leave, the bride spoke.
“Adria.”
Adria turned.
The bride held the ring tightly.
“Thank you.”
Adria nodded.
“You don't owe me anything.”
May you like
The bride looked at Callum.
“No. But he deserves an apology.”
