Supporting My Brother’s Happiness

At first, I was happy for him. Daniel had a glow I hadn’t seen in years.

He told me about the proposal, and I even went with him to pick out the ring. We searched for hours until he found one that was simple yet beautiful. Later, I planned the rehearsal dinner myself, pouring all my love into every detail.

And Noah was chosen to be the ring bearer. He took it so seriously, practicing at home with a little pillow, his face glowing with pride.

But from the start, Charlotte and I never seemed to connect. Maybe it was because I was a widow. Maybe because I didn’t belong in her family’s polished, country-club world. On the surface she was polite, but her smiles never felt warm. Still, I kept quiet. My only wish was for Daniel’s joy.

The Big Day