As I gathered them, bold letters on one sheet caught my eye—Debt Notice.
Every document was under Aaron’s name. My heart pounded as I flipped through them. Then I found another set of papers—property documents. My mom’s name was on them, but the signature at the bottom wasn’t hers. It was Aaron’s.
Panic surged through me. I didn’t stop to think. I grabbed the papers and raced to the venue.
“Stop the wedding!” I shouted as I burst through the doors.
Everyone turned. I rushed up to my mom and shoved the papers into her trembling hands. As she read them, her face paled, and her lips began to quiver. Then she covered her face with her hands.
“Casey…” she whispered hoarsely. “These debts… they’re because of you.”
Aaron stepped forward. “Your mom told me you’ve always dreamed of owning a restaurant,” he said gently. “We were buying one for you with the wedding money.”
He sighed and continued, “We had to finalize the purchase earlier than expected. I didn’t have enough funds, so I covered the difference. That’s why there’s debt.”
A rush of shame and guilt swept through me. “Please forgive me,” I murmured, my voice shaking. “And you too, Aaron. I was too harsh.”
Aaron’s voice remained steady. “Casey, take your seat so we can continue the ceremony.”
I hesitated, then slowly nodded. My legs felt weak as I walked toward the back of the room. The weight of my mistake pressed down on me, heavier than I could bear.
Note: This story is a work of fiction inspired by real events. Names, characters, and details have been altered. Any resemblance is coincidental. The author and publisher disclaim accuracy, liability, and responsibility for interpretations or reliance. All images are for illustration purposes only.
