Chapter 5
As the words fell, we were both stunned.[]
A flash of regret crossed Luca’s eyes as he reached out to explain.[]
When his fingertips touched the leather bracelet on my wrist, I snapped awake and stepped back.[]
This had once been our token of love, but now it burned so hot it made me want to cry.]
Lucia knew when to quit while ahead and weakly stood up:]
“Forget it, Luca. I’m not angry anymore. The rehearsal is about to start.“]
Luca didn’t dare look at me, mumbled a response, and hurried away with her.[]
That evening, Luca found me.]
“About what happened earlier… I’m sorry.“[]
I thought he had come to apologize, but then I saw him produce a paper bag from behind his back.]
Inside was an exquisite veiled hat.]
He avoided my gaze, struggling for a long time before finally speaking:
“Lucia hopes the wedding will be perfect. Wear this tomorrow.“]
“That way… the photos will look good too.”
Perhaps I had truly let go, because this time I didn’t need to struggle to hide my calm.[]
“I understand.“]
He was stunned: “Don’t you have anything to say?“]
I paused, thinking of something: “I do.“[]
“Congratulations on your marriage.“]]
On the wedding day, I ultimately didn’t get to be the maid of honor.[]
Lucia, afraid that even the veil couldn’t stop me from stealing the spotlight, arranged for me to serve as wait staff in the hall.[]
When the wedding march played, I was applauding below the stage.[]
But for some reason, as Luca walked down the aisle, he kept glancing at my bare wrist.[]
The leather bracelet that had witnessed our past had long since been thrown into the sea.]
Chapter 5
When it came time for the bouquet toss, Lucia deliberately threw the flowers into my arms in front of everyone.[]
“Nina, it’s been so nice knowing you.“]
“But you’re not getting any younger, and youth is limited. I wish you happiness soon, and hope you won’t be like before…“]
Though she didn’t say the words “being someone’s plaything.” I could read her lips.[]
Just as I was about to respond, Luca suddenly frowned: “Lucia, don’t talk nonsense. Nina’s happiness, I–“[]
“I can give her that!“]
The hall doors burst open with a bang.
Marcus stood with one hand in his pocket, his usually rebellious face showing rare solemnity.[]
He winked at me and took my hand without question, interlacing our fingers.]
“Honey, I’m here to get you.“]
The entire hall erupted in shock.[]
