9
The wedding day arrived with a modest guest list. My small family and Shane's were in attendance, as I had no relatives to invite. We had taken on the task of decorating the venue ourselves, carefully arranging each bloom with purpose.
As I worked, I couldn't help but recall the previous wedding that never came to be. I had been alone then, handling all the preparations while Glenn spent his last night of bachelorhood with friends. At the time, I had accepted it as normal. It's only now, with Shane, that I understand how much I had adapted to Glenn's lifestyle instead of being true to myself.
With Shane, I've finally found the freedom to be the authentic Adriana.
"Addie, you look absolutely radiant," Shane's voice interrupted my musings. His gaze, a mixture of gentle worry and profound love, met mine, anchoring me to the present.
I held Shane's hand firmly, finding comfort in his warm touch as it calmed my anxiety.