The next morning, I wake up feeling empty. The wedding excitement has worn off, and reality sets in – Anni's gone. She's started her new life with Clyde.
I lie in bed for a while, trying to muster the energy to face the day. But as the minutes tick by, I know I need to get up and put on a brave face.
I take a deep breath, tossing off the covers, and swing my legs over the side of the bed. My feet dangle in the air, feeling heavy.
As I stand up, my gaze falls on the wedding dress hanging on the door. Anni's dress. The one she wore yesterday.
Tears prick at the corners of my eyes, but I force them back. I've cried enough.
I make my way to the bathroom, flipping on the light. My reflection stares back, looking pale and tired.
"Time to put on a smile," I tell myself.
I splash water on my face, pat dry, and apply a light layer of makeup. The transformation is instant – I look more awake, more alive.
But the emptiness inside remains.
Breakfast is a quiet affair, with Aunt Sophia and Uncle Jack chatting softly. They're giving me space, sensing my mood.
As I pour myself a cup of coffee, Aunt Sophia notices my quietness. "Dahlia, honey, are you okay?"
I nod, trying to brush it off. "Just tired from yesterday."
Aunt Sophia's expression softens. "I know it's hard to see your sister go. You two have always been close."
I feel a lump form in my throat as Aunt Sophia pulls me into a warm hug.
"I have something for you," she says, releasing me and handing me a beautifully crafted book.
As I open the cover, my heart swells. The book is filled with photos of Anni and Clyde's special day. Tears prick at the corners of my eyes as I flip through the pages.
Anni's radiant smile and Clyde's adoring gaze leap off the pages. They're meant to be, I tell myself.
"You were an amazing maid of honor, Dahlia," Aunt Sophia whispers, her voice filled with emotion. "Anni will always treasure these memories."
I nod, feeling a mix of sadness and joy. My sister is happy, and that's all that matters.
As I continue flipping through the book, I'm struck by the love radiating from the photos. Anni and Clyde's connection is palpable.
A pang of longing hits me, but I push it aside. I need to focus on my own happiness now.
The rest of the morning passes in a blur. I help with the cleanup, responding to congratulations messages, and making small talk with the remaining guests.
But my mind keeps drifting back to Anni and Clyde.
Where are they now? Are they happy?
The questions swirl in my head, but I know I'll never have the answers.
As the afternoon sun begins to set, I take a walk around the hotel grounds. The fresh air helps clear my head.
I find myself at the pool, watching children laugh and play. Their joy is infectious, and I can't help but smile.
For a moment, I forget about Anni's wedding, about Clyde, about my own heartache.
But as the sun dips below the horizon, reality sets back in.
I return to my room, feeling more exhausted than ever.
As I collapse onto the bed, I realize I've been running on autopilot all day.
Time to face my emotions.
I let the tears fall, finally allowing myself to grieve.
Grieve for the loss of my sister, my best friend.
Grieve for the love that could never be.
As the night wears on, I cry myself to sleep.
Tomorrow will be a new day.
Tomorrow, I'll start healing.
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