I stared at the message for several seconds before replying.
Thank you. Margaret has everything under control. I’ll see you at the estate.
A moment later, three dots appeared.
Then disappeared.
Then appeared again.
Finally, Vanessa sent a heart.
I put the phone down.
She still believed she was in control.
She still believed I was the same Olivia who would apologize for questioning her, who would smooth over every uncomfortable moment, who would protect our friendship even when doing so meant ignoring my own instincts.
She had no idea that the wedding she intended to destroy was no longer following her plan.
At 7:15, Ryan arrived with breakfast. He placed a paper bag on the table, then handed me an envelope.
“Ethan asked me to bring this.”
Inside was a folded sheet of paper in Ethan’s handwriting.
Whatever happens today, remember that I chose you long before there was a ring, a venue, or a wedding date. I chose you when we were broke and eating takeout on the floor of our first apartment. I chose you when your father was sick and you thought you had to be strong for everyone. I choose you now. I will keep choosing you.
