The day was meant to be perfect: flowers swaying, music humming, guests in smart suits, and the brides dazzling white dress shimmering under the soft light. The groom stood radiant, his faithful dog Winston by his sidea gentle, loyal companion trained to follow him everywhere. Winston was more than a pet; he was family, a silent confidant with kind eyes and a steady presence.
But the bride, Penelope, clearly despised him. She wrinkled her nose whenever Winston wandered near, complained he smelt like wet dog, and insisted he be removed. The groom tried to soothe her, promising Winston wouldnt disturb the celebration, but Penelope was unmoved.
During the ceremony, Penelope grew worsesnapping at the grooms mother, mocking a guests gift with a cruel laugh, then drinking too much champagne. The groom cringed at her behavior but bit his tongue. It was their wedding day, after all.
Then, the unexpected. Winston suddenly nipped Penelopes hand, though hed never shown aggression before. She shrieked, grabbed a bottle to strike him, but the groom stepped in. When he realised why Winston had bitten her, he called off the wedding entirely.
The moment unfolded like a slow, surreal dream: Winston stood calmly beside his owner. Penelope approached, locked eyes with the groom, and deliberately trod on Winstons tail. The dog yelped and bit her hand in defence. The room froze.
Penelope screamed, clutching her hand, then snatched a bottle from the table, raising it to hit Winston.
Dont you dare touch my dog, the groom said sharply. You provoked him.
I stepped on his tail by accident! she spat, face twisted with rage.
An accident? His voice was icy. Was swinging that bottle an accident too?
Penelope faltered, nursing her hand. II didnt know what I was doing. It was the shock.
The groom knelt beside Winston, who trembled, ears flattened. What shock? he said quietly. Do you always hit those weaker than you?
Penelope had no answer.
The groom stood, voice steady. Therell be no wedding today.
He hugged Winston tightly, the dog licking his hand in quiet gratitude, while the guests exchanged stunned glances. The dreamlike scene dissolved into silence.
Was he right to walk away?
