They walked to the stage.
My mind froze a bit. Mandy leaned in, "Hey Rain, isn't she your patient? We met a few days ago."
"She is," I reply.
They stood next to Junior's father, and he looked at them with love and held their hands together.
"As you all know, Rose and Junior have been engaged for quite some time. I am now happy to announce that on this exact date next month, they will be tying the knot."
The crowd erupted into cheers and applause, the excitement palpable in the air. Rose beamed, her eyes glistening with joy, while Junior looked lost, what just happened? Mr. Lee continued, "We hope you will all join us in celebrating this special occasion. Your presence will mean the world to both our families."
As the applause died down, the band struck up a lively tune, and guests began to mingle once more, congratulating the happy couple as they passed by.
boom
Mandy nudged me, "Let's leave, Rain."
I nodded, still processing the whirlwind of emotions and revelations of the night. "Yes"
How we even got home, I would lie.
Mandy sat with me, sad, and we both didn't have words.
"I'm going to shower," I said, heading to the bathroom. I took off my clothes and cried myself out in the shower.
How can he lie to me? He promised to be my only man, and now what just happened?
I cried and cried until I had no tears left.
When I finally stepped out of the shower, the steam clouded the mirrors, obscuring my reflection. I wrapped myself in a towel and took a deep breath, trying to gather the strength to face the reality waiting outside the bathroom door.
Mandy was still sitting in the same spot, her eyes red and swollen. She looked up as I entered the room, her expression a mix of concern and helplessness.
"Are you okay?" she asked softly, her voice barely above a whisper.
I nodded, though I knew she could see through the facade. "I'll be alright," I replied, though the words felt hollow.
Mandy stood up and walked over to me, wrapping her arms around me in a comforting hug. "We'll get through this together," she said, her voice filled with determination. "You don't have to go through this alone."
I hugged her back, grateful for her unwavering support. "Thank you," I whispered, feeling a small glimmer of hope amid the overwhelming sadness. We sat in silence.
The Lee Mansion
Father, how could you do this?
I decided on your behalf, a decision you couldn't handle. When we last talked, you assured me that you had everything under control and that you would make a choice that would keep us at the top, just as it should be.
Just because I am quiet doesn't mean I am unaware. While you appear to prioritize her, you are missing out on a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Marrying Rose would benefit all of us, while your relationship with Rain is causing discord. I have made a decision for you, and you must attend the wedding.
This is not just about family pride or social standing; it's about securing our future. Rose's family has the connections and the influence that can elevate us to new heights. Rain, on the other hand, brings nothing but chaos and uncertainty. Father, you have always taught me to think strategically, to weigh the benefits against the risks. This is what I've done.
I understand that love can cloud judgment, but we cannot afford to be sentimental in times like these. The stakes are too high. The decision to marry Rose is not just a personal choice; it's a business strategy that will fortify our legacy for generations to come. I hope you can see the wisdom in my actions and support this union, for the good of our family.
Please, Father, do not let emotions lead us astray.
Attend the wedding and endorse this alliance. It's the best path forward for all of us.