Soon I Discovered the Reason, Which Broke Me
When Evie’s best friend’s wedding was approaching, she was thrilled about being part of Jade’s milestone. However, just days before the event, unsettling whispers about Evie’s husband emerged, and then came the shocking news that he was not invited. What were these rumors, and could they be true?
Jade and I have been pals since we were kids; our families live right across from each other. Through thick and thin, from childhood games to college experiences, we stuck together.
“We’re going to be friends until we’re old and gray,” Jade often promised.
Her commitment to our friendship always assured me, especially when she was my Maid of Honor four years ago during my wedding.
Now, as Jade’s wedding approaches, I’m not just attending but am also a proud bridesmaid. Given our years of friendship, she extended the invitation to my family too.
“Everyone?” I asked for confirmation.
“Everyone! They’ve been part of my life since we were kids, especially your grandma with her legendary toasted sandwiches!” she exclaimed.
With days left to the big event, responsibilities quickly piled up, and I took charge of organizing a classy bridal party dinner.
“We want a more elegant gathering, not the usual parties,” Jade instructed, her mind crystal clear about her vision.
I gathered details, ensuring everything fit her expectations: a cozy dinner with flowing drinks, only for the bridal party — no parents to inhibit the fun.
My husband, James, never really seemed to fit into Jade’s world seamlessly. Sometimes she’d enjoy his company, and other times, simply tolerate him.
The dinner went smoothly. We were carefree until a slightly inebriated Jade requested James to pick up s’more supplies, which he kindly did.
The evening ended magically under the stars with s’mores — a picturesque send-off!
However, an unexpected cloud loomed over when Jade suddenly requested, “Evie, please don’t bring James to the wedding.”
Stunned, I questioned why, but she quickly evaded my inquiries.
How? Why wasn’t my husband welcomed anymore? After all, Jade had played an integral part in our union.
Seeking solace, I prepared a calming bubble bath, knowing I’d face the bridal party later at the nail salon.
Internally conflicted, I still joined the gathering. Upon arrival, the absence of Jade was glaring, and soon, I learned from Whitney, her cousin, that Jade had concerns about James’s potential behavior.
Shocked, I couldn’t process Jade’s fears about my husband — never had he been problematic.
Jade’s denial escalated my confusion, leading me to confront her later. Despite her reassurances, mistrust lingered.
That evening, while unwinding with pizza, James listened, offering his support: “I don’t get it. Jade must have personal issues.”
James shared a seemingly innocuous conversation during the night when Jade expressed wishing her relationship was like ours, driving her discomfort.
In light of everything, I attended her wedding on my own. It was a decision I wouldn’t make lightly, yet James encouraged me to honor our shared history, no matter how strained.
Wrapping up my presence with a family nod, I tried to embrace the occasion with grace, even amidst my unease.
Afterward, over ice cream, James asked, “Did you find any peace?” I wasn’t sure. Was it closure on a wedding, or the end of a cherished friendship?
Reflecting deeply, I pondered on trust and love — elements that seem as fragile as they are foundational.
