It was too late. Tomorrow, I would be someone else's bride and the love I once felt for him would be gone.
——
"What is it? Why are you apologizing? Wanda, did something happen?"
My brother's soothing voice made my nose tickle.
Not wanting him to sense my distress, I teased him cheerfully.
"No, nothing happened! I just really missed you. Did you forget something today?
My brother chuckled. "Of course not, my little troublemaker. Your gift should be arriving soon."
"Happy birthday, Wanda!"
I laughed. "Yes. I'm so happy, Clark."
But as soon as I hung up, the tears wouldn't stop.
I'm sorry, Clark. I lied to you again.
When Julian returned, he found me fast asleep on the couch.
He knelt beside me and gently shook me awake. His eyes twinkled like stars.
"How come you fell asleep here? You'll catch a cold, silly."
I stayed still, just stared at him with tired eyes.
He seemed different today, a relaxed ease I hadn't seen in our eight years together.
He placed a package in front of me. "Your delivery. I picked it up from downstairs. Judging by the address, it's from Clark."
"What day is it? Why is he suddenly sending you something?"
I pulled my gaze away from him but couldn't shake the dull ache in my chest.