Rage? Numbness?
I stared at the glaring red voice bubble, Lia’s cheer echoing. I should be furious. Embers had flared briefly, scorching my insides. Instinct demanded I hurl the phone, storm his office, and shred his facade. Yet my body betrayed me. No inferno erupted—only piercing cold. Strength and warmth drained instantly, leaving a hollow, immobile shell. I sank into a silent ice cave, endless frigid stillness swallowing me.
From its depths, a thought crystallized—calm, almost maddening: "Accept." The voice in my head was flat. "I'll be that bridesmaid." I would watch. Witness their flawless act amid universal blessings. Stand closest to see their lie-built paradise crumble. The idea coiled around my heart like vines, granting icy resolve.
Replying to Lia
Fingers hovered, ice-cold and hesitant. Finally, I pressed record, steadying my tone. "Hello, Lia." A pause, feigning composure. "Saw the invite. Congratulations!" My voice rasped faintly. I cleared my throat against the dryness. "Your bridesmaid? That’s… unexpected." I forced a breathy chuckle into the mic. "May I ask… why me?" Sent. Lowering my arm, the chill had seeped to my core.
Instant Reply
Her response came instantly. Eager. "Sister Amy! Thank you for replying! I was so nervous!" "Because… you’re my ultimate idol! Your style, grace, outlook on life… it’s all perfect!" Words tumbled out, sincere. "Honestly… I’ve no close friends. College pals are scattered. We just moved here…"
"My boyfriend… fiancé, Mark! He said the wedding’s all mine—pick whoever I adore most!" Mark. His name flowed naturally, intimately from her lips. "I thought of you! Truly! I watch your videos daily! You feel like a big sister…" Her voice dipped, sheepish. "I know it’s presumptuous… if you’re busy or decline… no worries! Honestly!" Her final "honestly" trembled with hope. She was immersed in bridal joy. With my groom.
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