The morning of my wedding, I thought I was about to marry the love of my life — until my future father-in-law pressed a note into my hand and shattered everything I thought I knew. I had one chance to face the truth, even if it meant risking the future I’d always dreamed of.If I’d known what was coming, I wouldn’t have chosen ivory for my wedding dress. It was Miranda’s favorite. She called it “timeless,” and I let her steer me, like I let so many little things slide.

The morning started the way I’d always imagined.My best friend, Tara, doing my hair, we were both laughing so much that she had to redo the braid twice. My mom kept bursting in and out, arms full of last-minute details.Miranda was already there, her voice sweet and sharp all at once.”Sit still, Amelia.” She pinned my veil with business-like precision.”You want everything to be perfect, don’t you?” she added.”Perfect’s overrated,” I muttered.But I wanted it. Of course I did.My life had never been shaken like it was after Daniel.Meeting him seemed like an accident — a spilled coffee, an apology, and a smile that grew into something I thought was fate.