The fluorescent lights hummed as I stared at my computer, exhausted after another late night at the office. My boss, Michael, appeared in the doorway and dropped a thick stack of reports on my desk. “I need these by morning,” he said, then hesitated like he wanted to say more before walking away.

Just as I was leaving, my aunt called—reminding me about my mother’s wedding the next day. My mother was getting married, and she hadn’t told me.I drove straight to her house, furious. “Why didn’t you tell me?” I demanded. She looked guilty but firm. “It’s complicated, Alice. I didn’t want to burden you.”

The next morning, I went to the wedding anyway—and froze when I saw the groom. Michael. My boss.I stormed out, but later, I found him in the parking lot. “I didn’t know how to tell you,” he admitted. “I pushed you at work because I saw your potential—I was going to recommend you for a promotion.”

Realizing how wrong I’d been, I went back inside. The ceremony resumed, and as I watched them exchange vows, I saw the love I’d missed before.At the reception, Mom hugged me tightly. “I should have trusted you,” she whispered.Michael smiled awkwardly. “Guess we’ll have to figure this out.”I laughed. “Yeah. But first—no more extra reports on my desk.”As they danced, I realized—some family stories are messy, but that’s what makes them worth it.Monday was going to be interesting.