11/10/2026
He toasted his ex-wife first. Blew her a kiss. Said she "taught him how to love." My ch*****ne glass stayed untouched the entire time.
I had said no to inviting Amanda. Six years divorced, no kids, but Paul swore they parted as friends. Their mutual friends still saw her. I didn't trust it.
"She's my past, not my future," he promised.
I gave in.
Amanda wore ch*****ne-colored silk. She hugged Paul for way too long. Smiled at me like she knew something I didn't.
The ceremony was perfect. Paul cried during my vows. Squeezed my hands. Said he was happier than ever.
Then came his toast.
He stood. I lifted my glass, expecting my moment.
He turned to Amanda instead.
"I need to thank someone first," he said. "Amanda taught me how to love."
My smile died.
He blew her a kiss.
At our wedding.
"Now I get to bring what she taught me to our marriage," he said, leaning in to kiss me.
I pulled away.
"Seriously, Paul?"
His face hardened. "Don't ruin this."
My father stood up without a word and walked straight to the DJ booth.
Paul went pale. "No. Stop him."
Dad whispered to the DJ.
The DJ pulled something out from underneath the table.
Paul's chair scraped back. He tried to move.
It was too late.