Tabitha’s POV

I swallow the lump in my throat and keep my eyes on the track, pretending that the tightening in my chest is just the noise and not the ache of realizing how fragile this illusion is.

The conversation around me continues, filled with laughter. Evelyn elbows me lightly and grins. “Speaking of brothers and sisters,” she says while wiggling her brows, “your future sister-in-law is here with us today.” She gestures at me.

I laugh awkwardly, unsure what to do. Melanie is giggling while Elsie’s smile fades a little.

“Tabi, meet your future sister-in-law,” Evelyn jokes while pointing at her friend and sister.

I blink rapidly, my mind...