Mike, ever thoughtful, had brought along fine wine and a painting as gifts.
He followed her in.
Her dad came out to greet them, all smiles but stopped short seeing Mike.
"Hold on," he glanced at Jessica, "Wade didn't come with you?"
She just nodded.
Even if she'd been keeping it a secret, her dad knew too well our marriage was on the rocks.
He quickly ushered Mike to another room to talk to her alone.
"Jessica, I know it wasn't easy accepting how things turned out," he started.
"But over the years, Wade really has shown you nothing but love."
"Youthful love often fades. You'll understand someday."
The weight of the day bore down on her, prompting her to vent, "I tried calling him, no answer. Didn't even text back."
"Doesn't he see if there was something between me and Mike, he wouldn't have stood a chance?"
Her dad gave her a reassuring pat. "Let's just eat for now. I'll call him later."
The elders sat at the head of the table, with Jessica and Mike on either side, the younger family around them.
Throughout the meal, Mike kept serving her, and after a moment's hesitation, she accepted.
That sight twisted a knot in my chest.