The Wedding Is Off

The Wedding is Off

Lily walks into the room and hesitates in the doorway. In front of her, Beatrice stands in her wedding dressshe looks absolutely radiant. The dress fits her perfectly, highlighting her figure, and her eyes glow with a gentle, almost weightless happiness. Lily cant hold back her excitement:

Oh my goodness, youre simply glowing! she exclaims, unable to take her eyes off her friend. Im so happy for you! At last, youre turning the page and letting yourself feel new things, leaving Nicholas behind! Youre marvellous!

Beatrice flinches ever so slightly; her smile is gone in an instant. She hurriedly fidgets with the dresss fastenings, struggling not to look at Lily.

Id better take it off, she mutters, skilfully undoing the tiny hooks at the side. Theres only two weeks until the big day, after all. If anything happens to the dress, there simply wont be time to find another.

Lily bites her lip. She realises at once shes said too much. Why mention Nicholas nowespecially when Beatrice has finally found someone who deserves her? Nicholas never deserved a single one of Beatrices tears, especially after how hed treated her.

Once, Beatrice truly believed Nicholas was the one. She thought their relationship would last forever. But then things slowly came apart. He began to distance himself, coming up with excuses for why they couldnt meet. Eventually, he started openly criticising her choices, her friends, even her dreams. He persuaded her to quit a promising job project, talked her out of taking an internship abroad, and, in the end, insisted she change careers entirely.

Beatrices family had no idea what was happening to her. They watched as she changed, losing sight of herself, but couldnt do anything about it. Every attempt at conversation ended in rowsNicholas had convinced Beatrice her family just didnt accept him and wanted to ruin what he called their perfect love. The conflict grew, and in time, Beatrice barely spoke to her parents at all.

And then he vanished. He simply left, without a word of goodbye, not even a note. All that remained was a deep woundand the child, whom Beatrice decided to keep, come what may.

Now, watching her friend hurriedly undress from her wedding dress, Lily feels a sharp sting of guilt. She only wanted to see Beatrice happy, to celebrate with her. Disturbing old memories was never her intention.

Beatrices little boyNicholas Jr.is four now, a lively and inquisitive child who constantly asks questions about the world. One day hes wondering why the sky is blue, the next hes pondering where the clouds go, or is excitedly studying bugs in the park. His nursery teachers always point out how clever he is; Nicholas learns quickly, memorises poems with ease, and listens intently to long stories.

He spends most of his time at Beatrices parents house; his grandparents took him in with open arms and are dedicated to giving him the best up-bringing they can. They found a nursery with early English reading, took him to swimming, and started dance classes as well. Beatrice herself only visits him a few times a week, never staying longer than an hour or two.

The reason was as simple as it was painful: Nicholas Jr. is uncannily like his father. The same unruly dark curls, the same cheeky grin, the same shape to his eyes. Every time Beatrice looks at her son, shes pulled back to the time when she truly believed her family would be happy together. She loves her little boy dearly, celebrates every success and each smilebut the love is laced with a deep ache. Whenever she picks him up or gazes into his eyes, tears spring to her lashes. She turns away, pretends to fix her clothes or rummage in her handbag, quietly crying once his attention is elsewhere.

One evening, Beatrice collects Nicholas from her parents. Hes sitting on the rug, deeply absorbed in a jigsaw puzzle. Upon seeing his mum, he jumps up and rushes over.

Mummy, look! he tugs her to the floor. Almost done! Heres a house, theres a treeand this bit this will be a dog!

Beatrice kneels beside him, trying to keep her smile steady.

Its beautiful, she says, stroking his hair. Youre so careful with your pieces.

He pauses, thinking. Then he looks up.

Mummy, wheres my daddy? All the other children at school have one, only I dont

Beatrice freezes. Something tightens inside, but she manages to reply calmly:

I dont know, darling. Daddys far away for nowbut Im sure he thinks about you.

Why doesnt he ring? Nicholas frowns, brow furrowed as if wrestling with a complicated puzzle. Id tell him I can tie my own shoelaces now!

He hes just very busy, Beatrice stammers, fighting the lump in her throat. But Im certain hes proud of you.

He considers this, then nodsas if accepting her answerand returns to his puzzle.

Okay. Then Ill finish this house, and Daddy will see how clever I am!

Beatrice sits beside him, silently swallowing her tears. She wants to offer comfort, say something meaningful, but no words come. Instead, she just reaches out and gently strokes his hair, breathing in the scent of childrens shampoo, trying to hang onto this momenther son, close, happy and trusting, no matter how many questions he asks and how few answers she has.

In spite of everything, Beatrice cannot stop thinking about Nicholas Sr. Deep down, she still searches for excuses for him. Maybe something terrible happened? Perhaps he was in trouble, desperate to get in touch but unable to? These thoughts keep her afloat, stopping her from sinking entirely.

Her family has gently tried broaching the subject more than once. Her mum hints that she shouldnt live in the past, that she should focus on her son and herself. Her friends are more direct: Hes left you. You have to accept it and move on! But Beatrice refuses to listen. She insists they were once happy, reminds them of all his promises. These discussions end with her withdrawing, her companions giving up with a sigh.

Still, she isnt idle. From time to time, she scrolls through social media, tries old haunts where he might turn up, even posts appeals in online groups for help finding him. All in vain. Yet she cantor wontbelieve that Nicholas left of his own will, never intending to return.

Until, after five lengthy years, someone arrives in Beatrices world who, without warning, begins to thaw her heart. It all happens quite by chance, at the birthday of a mutual friend. Edward immediately catches her attentiona man who can best be described as dependable. Theres just no other word for it. He is honest, kind, caringthe real thing.

From their first meetings, Beatrice feels she can be herself with Edward. He doesnt expect endless smiles or false cheerfulness. If shes tired, he suggests heading home. If she wants silence, he never presses her to talk. Edward is exactly the sort of man shes been seeking: calm, measured, andmost importantlygenuinely in love.

He shows his affection in a hundred small gestures: remembering how she takes her tea, learning her colleagues names and asking after them, quietly sorting practical problems at home. Hes happy to take on lifes burdens for her, and Beatrice, to be honest, gladly lets him.

What moves her most is how naturally Edward gets on with little Nicholas. At their first meeting the boy studies him warily, clutching his mothers hand. But Edward surprises her yet againhe crouches down to Nicholas level and asks what cartoons he likes. Within half an hour theyre building things from blocks together, Nicholas eagerly showing off his favourite toys.

Eventually, Edward becomes a regular visitor at Beatrices parents, where Nicholas stays. He takes the boy to the park, teaches him to ride a bike, reads him bedtime stories. One evening, when Beatrice finds them painting together, Edward quietly says, Id like to be his true father. If you allow it, Id like to adopt Nicholas.

Lily truly rejoices for her friend. She sees Beatrice changing: the light returning to her eyes, the worry lines fading, the smiles now real instead of forced. But today, Lilys made the rookie mistake of bringing up Nicholas Senior, reopening an old wound. She only hopes Beatrice isnt too upset.

Yet Beatrice surprises her.

Ive grown up, Beatrice says with a faint smile, carefully laying the dress on the bed. I realise now my feelings for Nicholas belong in the past. I sometimes regret naming my son after himI was so stubborn, wouldnt listen to anyone How did you all put up with me?

Lily places a gentle hand on hers.

Are you planning to bring Nicholas home from your parents place?

Yes, Beatrice responds, serious again. Edward is particularly keen. Hes even suggested changing Nicholas namesays itll help me. Either way, his birth certificate will have to be updated when the adoption goes through.

She pauses, looking at raindrops trickling down the window.

I used to worry Nicholas would always remind me of my past. But I know now thats wrong. Hes my boy, and he deserves a real childhood, with two parents who love him! Grandparents are wonderful, but cant replace mum and dad. And Edward gets that toohe truly wants to be a father to him. You should see how attached hes grown.

Brilliant idea! Lily brightens. Maybe ask your son what name hed like? He might adjust more quickly then.

I dont know. Im still not sure what well do. Theres time to decide.

The truth is, Beatrice is not being entirely honest. She still loves Nicholas and that feeling hasnt disappeared, though it has brought her nothing good. Her parents are wary of her seeing her son, as she often ends up in tears, scaring the little boy. Her friends are weary of her problems, secretly doubting her stability. Its time to let go of the past and truly focus on the present.

On the wedding, for instance.

Except, of course, thats easier said than done.

Edward is doubtlessly a good manbut he isnt Nicholas. Beatrice doesnt find her feelings for him run deep; she has simply let his affection work for her own comfort.

If Nicholas came back shed give anything to be with him again.

***

There isnt going to be a wedding! Beatrice announces, her eyes ablaze, almost dancing with glee. Were parting ways, like ships in the night!

Edward stares at her in confusion, struggling to make sense of it. Only a week to gomenu sorted, flowers chosen, guests invited. Everything felt certain and now shes suddenly ending it?

What do you mean, no wedding? he asks, searching her face for some sign shes only joking. Beatrice, whats happened? Please just explain.

But Beatrice brushes his questions aside, rushing about the room, grabbing things and flinging them into an open suitcase. Her eyes are shining, a smile flitting across her lipsso unfamiliar, so real.

Nicholas is back! she blurts, not looking at Edward. Theres such happiness in her voice, its almost a physical blow. He returned yesterday. We talked I could hardly believe it was real!

She finally stops, faces him, not a shadow of regret in her gazeonly joy and anticipation.

Im grateful for these last six months, she says, her tone softening. Its been peaceful, comforting with you Youre a wonderful man, Edward. But I never loved you truly. Now, with real happiness finally in reach, I cant let it slip by.

A cold emptiness sprawls through Edwards chest. Nicholas. Always Nicholas. The very man Beatrice spoke of with such devotion, Edward had always felt like the outsider. He knew she still thought of him; hed hoped time and their life together would change that.

Have you actually spoken to him? he manages eventually, his voice tight, as if there isnt enough air. What did he say? Did he come up with some new excuse?

He didnt make excuses, Beatrice snaps, her words sharp. He told me he understood what a mistake hed made. That hes thought of nothing but me all this time.

She turns again, packs more things, Edward standing motionless, watching his world dull and fade.

We spoke on the phone, she continues, checking the drawers for anything important. His parents forced him to study abroad and he couldnt warn me before he left. Can you believe it? All this time, he thought only of me, just couldnt get in touch. But now, everything will be differentwell be together and live happily ever after!

Beatrices mind flashes back to that first callNicholass voice nervous, almost trembling:

Beatrice, I know how awful this looks. But you have to understandmy parents made me choose: either university in London or theyd cut me off. I tried to fight, I honestly tried but they cancelled my cards, blocked my accounts. I didnt even have a mobile!

Why didnt you call, not even once? Beatrices voice had wavered, her best efforts to hide her hurt.

I couldnt. What would I have saidthat I was weak, letting my parents dictate my life?

In that moment, listening to him stumble through his explanations, Beatrice felt warmth unfurl inside her. All the heartache, the bitterness, it simply melted away in his voice. She realised shed waited for his call day after day, hour after hour.

It will all be different now, Nicholas had said. Ive dropped out, Im homeand Im not going anywhere.

Beatrice now stands in front of Edward, those words echoing in her mind.

She scans the room once more, her suitcase ready, and only now sees the blood drain from Edwards face; rigid, his gaze unfocused, as if hes not even looking at her.

Dont worry, she says more gently, but with unyielding certainty. Ive already let everyone know the wedding is off. I explained everything, asked them not to bother you. Of course, people will send their sympathies, but youre strong. Youll cope.

She pulls her suitcase to her side, straightening the handle as if its the most important thing in the world. She glances at Edward again, eyes free of apology or doubt.

And please, dont ring or message me, or leave pointless voicemails, she says firmly, almost as an order. My decision is final. Nothing will change it.

She picks up the suitcase, wobbles a moment from its weight, but straightens up and strides toward the door, as if afraid that even the slightest pause might shatter her resolve.

Edward stands in the middle of the room, everything inside him tightening with pain and disbelief. He takes a deep breath, fights to control himself. He wants to scream, demand answers, but restrains himselfnot wanting to seem desperate or defeated. Slowly, he clenches and unclenches his fists, his tone calm, almost casual:

Are you sure youre not rushing into this? he asks, eyes on her.

She stops at the door, gripping the suitcase handle, shoulders tense, fingers white on the leather strap.

What if he doesnt want to rekindle things? What if he refuses to acknowledge your son? Has he proposed at all?

Beatrice swings round, face flushed with excitement and annoyance. She strides towards Edward, as if determined to make him see.

Hes invited me for a proper chat! she exclaims. Thats enough! And dont try to drag him downNicholas isnt like that!

Her voice cracks at the last, but she steadies herself immediately, grabs her suitcase again and heads for the door.

You could at least help, she mutters under her breath, struggling with the heavy bag.

Edward instinctively moves forward, half-ready to help, but stops himself. Why help someone whos stomped on his feelings? He sees clearly nowher thoughts are far away, fixed on Nicholas. Her eyes shine with certainty, even euphoria: a new life is about to begin, filled with love and happiness. Shes already rehearsed their reunion in her mind a hundred times: Nicholas smiling, promising that everything will finally be all right.

But reality is nothing like her daydream. Nicholas, having suggested a serious conversation, has no intent of proposing or pledging eternal devotion. He just wants to close the chapter and start anotherwithout Beatrice. Besides, hes already in a new relationship.

But Beatrice, swept away by her own dreams, doesnt notice the obvious. Shes waited so long, shes ready to believe anything, as long as she doesnt have to face fresh disappointment.

Hauling the suitcase with difficulty, she pauses at the door, hand on the handle as if about to say something, but then changes her mind, swings the door open and leaves without glancing back.

Edward is left standing, staring at the shut door. Her perfume lingers in the air, her last words echo: Nicholas isnt like that!

He slowly sits, weighing down under a wave of exhaustion. It all happened too quickly, too irrevocably. Now he must learn to livewithout Beatrice, without plans for a future, without illusions.

***

Nicholas opens his front door, surprised by an early morning knock. There stands Beatrice, two suitcases in tow, her face alight, eyes brimming with anticipation. He freezes, at a loss for words. All he can think is: How did she get things so wrong?

He had believed everything was finished. After Beatrice started seeing Edward, Nicholas finally felt relief. Now he could come back to his home town and settle in with his wife, without worrying about sudden calls, tears and accusations. In a way, he was even grateful to Beatrice for moving onit solved everything overnight.

Yes, hed called her and tried to be clear that things had changed, had even suggested a quick catch-up on neutral ground, but that was only a courtesy!

And here she is, suitcases at the door, expecting far more than a chat. Nicholas, a step back, tries to compose himself.

Beatrice! she exclaims, her voice sure theres no other option. Ive made my mind up. Im here, and at last, we can be together!

She moves forward, but Nicholas instinctively lifts a hand, stopping her.

Beatrice, wait he says, as gently as he can. I dont think you know everything.

She frowns, her smile slipping.

What do you mean? You said wed talk and sort things out!

Nicholas sighs, knowing the moment has finally arrived.

Im married, Beatrice. Two years now. My wife and I are very happy.

Beatrice freezes, her eyes wide with shock. She stands silent for several seconds, unable to take it in. Then her face contorts, panic, outrage, and injury mingled.

What?! she whispers, shaking her head. That cant be right You called, said things had changed!

I rang to say a proper goodbye, Nicholas says quietly. I wanted to explain our time was over. Weve both moved on. But you seem to have taken it another way.

Beatrice takes a step back, fists trembling. She clenches her hands, trying to control herself, but emotions burst through.

You you lied to me all this time! she shouts, her voice trembling with anger. How could you? I gave up everything for you!

Nicholas feels irritation mounting. He doesnt want a row, doesnt want to justify himself, but Beatrice clearly wont leave without a showdown.

I never promised you anything, he says firmly. You decided all this on your own. I tried to be gentle, thats all. But now things are clear, arent they?

Beatrice lets out a cry, lobs one suitcase to the floor, its contents scattering across the hallway. She yells, accuses, demands explanations, her voice rising, echoing through the flat.

Forced to it, Nicholas politely but firmly ushers her into the communal hall. He closes his door, hoping thats the end of it. But Beatrice doesnt stop. She bangs on the door, yells his name, neighbours peep out, people grumble and threaten to call the police.

After an hour, with Beatrices shouting now even louder and neighbours voicing their fury, she finally leaves. Glancing back, tears in her eyes, she cries out:

Ill be back! Youll regret this!

Nicholas closes his eyes, overcome with exhaustion. He knows its not really the end. Beatrice is stubbornshe wont drop something once shes set her mind on it.

He heads into his lounge, sinks into the sofa, deep in thought. Drastic measures are called for. He cant stay here; Beatrice might return, make a scene, disturb the neighbours. Nicholas reaches for his phone, opens the property website.

Time to sell up and look for somewhere new, he decides. The other side of town would be best

***

Beatrice wanders the street, blind to the world, sobbing quietly. Fragments of thought circle her head, a heavy emptiness weighing down her heart. She cant quite process whats just happened. Shed imagined Nicholas would welcome her with open arms, say hed waited for this moment, that finally, theyd be together. But reality has been cruel and merciless.

She roams the city for ages, gathering her composure, and somehow ends up outside Edwards flat. She wipes her tears, fixes her hairdetermined to look as together as she can. Drawing a deep breath, she climbs to his floor and presses the buzzer.

He doesnt answer straight away. When he opens the door, his face is distant, cold. He stands in the doorway, making no move to let her in.

Edward, please, she begins, her voice wavering. I know what Ive done. I know how senseless and cruel it was. But I want to put things right.

She falters, looking for the words, her eyes filling with tears again.

Ill never mention Nicholass name again, she says earnestly. I promise. It was all a mistake. I see now its only with you that Ill be happy. Please, just give me another chance.

Her voice is desperate, but she means every word. Right now, she believes that if Edward forgives her, everything will work out.

Edward slowly shakes his head. He isnt going to fall for this again.

Beatrice, he says gently, you already made your decision. This morning, you were here with your bags, telling me you were leaving for him. You were certain.

I was wrong! she interrupts. I didnt know what I was doing! It was all emotion! I

He sighs, running a hand through his hair. This isnt easy, but he knows he cant let emotions take over again.

You didnt just leave me, you left for someone else. That was your choice, and Ive accepted it. But now, just because it hasnt gone your way, you want to come back?

Yes! Beatrice cries. Because I love you! I love you, not him.

Hes silent a moment, then gives a small, sad smile.

I dont believe you anymore. Goodbye.

Beatrice feels something rip apart inside. Edward looks at her, calm and kind, but in his eyes theres no hesitation, no flicker of doubt. He truly doesnt believe her this time.

Please she whispers, her voice breaking.

Im sorry, he says. But this is best for both of us.

He closes the door, leaving Beatrice in the empty corridor. She stands motionless, then slowly sinks onto the step, covering her face and letting herself cry. This time, the tears are neither for anger nor pride, but from the bitter knowledge she has lost both Nicholas and Edward, with no idea how to go on.