Lance

“I’m heading out,” Dad said as he adjusted his coat. He gave Lemuel a brief but meaningful tap on the shoulder. Nothing dramatic, just enough to acknowledge him, then nodded at Annabelle before finally turning away.

Honestly, I didn’t expect Dad to attend this wedding. I thought he had long closed that door on Lemuel, especially after my brother chose a path that went against his wishes years ago. That’s why seeing him here, even silent, even distant, meant more than I wanted to admit. I felt relieved. More than that, I was happy. Happy for Lemuel. Happy for this day.

The guests began leaving one by one. The...