4#04

4

Their uncontrolled merriment echoed in my ears, sounding harsh and derisive.

I tightened my hands into fists, struggling to contain my mounting anger.

I kept telling myself, repeatedly:

Hold on, now is not the right moment!

At last, the much-awaited wedding day of Orion Winters and Isla Elander came to pass.

The event was extravagant, as expected of an affluent family. Amidst jubilation and fluttering confetti, the couple entered their opulent wedding vehicle, drawing envious looks from onlookers.

The convoy of cars paraded through the city's main thoroughfares, announcing their union to all.

The chosen venue, Eldoria City's most esteemed hotel, sparkled with enormous chandeliers and floral arrangements.

The guest list numbered in the hundreds, further emphasizing the Elander Family's social standing.

Even our old high school peers and instructors were in attendance.

As I entered the reception area in my best man attire, hushed murmurs of shock and disbelief spread.

"Is that really Vincent Hayes? Unbelievable! He actually dared to be Orion's best man!"

"This failure still has the audacity to show his face here. Miss Elander is now Mrs. Winters. Is he still trying to curry favor by playing best man?"

"How pitiful. Some people just can't maintain their self-respect."

As expected, Orion's true motive for selecting me as his best man quickly became apparent.

I could sense the contemptuous glares and pointing fingers of my former classmates.

I noticed a subtle smirk playing at the edges of Orion's mouth.

Surrounded by their taunts and jeers, I remained quiet.

I stood among the guests, maintaining my composure, my eyes fixed on Orion and Isla as they took center stage.

With the host narrating each step, the pair exchanged rings.

Amid applause and heartfelt wishes from the crowd, they embraced.

When it was time for the bouquet ceremony, Orion stepped forward and presented me with an exquisitely arranged floral bouquet.

Holding the microphone, he turned to me with a warm expression and spoke eloquently, "Vincent, we've known each other since childhood and I've always considered you my closest friend and brother."

"So, I genuinely want you to find happiness too."

"This bouquet represents my hope for your future. Isla has a sister who's always held you in high regard, and I sincerely hope you two can be together."

As he finished, he glanced towards the crowd, drawing attention to Isla's sister, who was born with intellectual challenges.

She stood there, smiling innocently, with saliva trickling from her mouth as she gazed at me with a simple grin.

In that instant, I realized that Orion hadn't made me his best man solely to humiliate me in front of our old schoolmates.

This was far more cruel than I had imagined!

Evelyn was quick to react, jumping up excitedly. Clapping enthusiastically, she exclaimed, "Oh, how wonderful! If my worthless son can marry Isla's sister, it would be the greatest stroke of luck in his life. He must have endured great hardships to deserve such joy!"

"Vincent, Orion always looks out for you! Why don't you show him proper gratitude?"

Seeing Evelyn's enthusiasm, the room erupted in laughter.

"Ha! The sycophant finally succeeded by marrying the rich family's mentally challenged daughter!"

"But isn't that a blessing in disguise? She's still an Elander, so technically he's marrying into the wealthy Elander Family!"

"This is perfect! Vincent's dream has finally come true. He's made it into a rich family!"

I stood silently, my face expressionless. My eyes were cold as I observed the scene impassively.

Isla's voice cut through, dripping with mockery. "What's wrong? Are you unhappy about marrying my sister?"

"Weren't you always so eager to become part of our family?"

"Are you so overjoyed that you're speechless now?"

Still, I remained silent, but Evelyn approached me angrily, grabbing my head forcefully. She compelled me to bow before Orion.