Was Never a Choice

Dinner at the Kingsley estate was a very extravagant affair. The long dining table was covered with so many dishes that were all expertly prepared, but I didn't touch any. My appetite vanished the moment we sat down.

The room was warm and was accompanied by quiet conversations and the occasional clinking of glasses. I sat down beside Don, with Tee settling on my other side. Across from me, his parents spoke with his grandmother who sat at the head of the table. She was the picture of poised authority. My parents sat opposite them with Jared beside them.

I kept my eyes on my plate the entire time. I kept pushing my food around as I counted down the minutes until I could leave. I was exhausted. From the day, from the forced smiles, from the weight of everything I had just signed away.

"So," Don’s grandmother said suddenly, placing her fork down. "Where will you two be staying after the wedding?" She asked.

The room fell into silence, and I stiffened.