No Wedding After All
Lily entered the room and paused at the doorway. Before her, dressed in a wedding gown, stood Rebecca and she looked absolutely stunning. The dress fit her perfectly, accentuating her figure, and her eyes gleamed with a quiet, delicate happiness. Lily couldnt hold back her admiration.
My word, youre absolutely radiant! she cried, not taking her eyes off her friend. Im so thrilled for you! At last youve managed to turn the page, open your heart to new feelings and put William behind you! Im proud of you!
Rebeccas expression faltered; the smile vanished in an instant. Hurriedly, she took hold of the dresss fastenings, trying not to meet Lilys gaze.
Id better take this off, she mumbled, deftly unhooking the tiny buttons at her side. Only two weeks to the ceremony. If anything happens to the dress, theres no chance of finding another like it.
Lily bit her lip. She immediately realised she had said too much. Why bring up William? Especially now, when Rebecca finally had a decent chap in her life, dredging up the past was the last thing she needed! William never deserved a single one of Rebeccas tears not after everything hed done.
Once, Rebecca truly believed William was the one. She was sure their relationship was for real and would last. But things started falling apart. First, he grew distant, always busy, making excuses to see less of her, then he began openly criticising her choices, her friends, even her dreams. He persuaded her to quit a promising project at work, talked her out of taking a placement abroad, and eventually insisted she switch careers altogether.
Rebeccas family couldnt understand what was happening to her. They saw her change, slip away from herself, but felt powerless to help. Attempts to talk ended in ugly rows William convinced her her family were just against him, determined to ruin their perfect love. The estrangement deepened until Rebecca was barely speaking with her parents.
Then, out of nowhere, William simply vanished. He left without a word, not even a note to say goodbye. All that remained was a deep emotional wound and a child whom Rebecca chose to keep, come what may.
Watching her friend hurriedly remove her wedding dress, Lily was consumed by guilt. She only meant to be happy for Rebecca, to see her content at last. The last thing she intended was to stir such painful memories.
Now little William Junior was four years old. He was a lively, inquisitive child, always asking questions about the world: why is the sky blue, where do the clouds go, or peering excitedly at ladybirds in the garden. The nursery staff often remarked on his brightness: William picked up new things quickly, memorised poems effortlessly, and listened to long stories with fascination.
He spent most of his time with his grandparents Rebeccas parents. They were delighted to take charge of him, nurturing his curiosity. They enrolled him in a nursery where he could practise his French, took him swimming, even signed him up for childrens dance classes. Rebecca visited him several times a week but never stayed more than an hour.
The reason was simple and painful. William Junior bore a striking resemblance to his father: the same dark, curly hair, the same shape of the eyes, that same mischievous smile. Every time Rebecca looked at him she was instantly transported back back to a time when she still believed their little family would be happy. She loved her son with all her heart, took pride in his achievements, delighted in his laughter. But along with the love came sharp pain. All it took was to hold him or catch his gaze and tears would prick her eyes. She would turn away, pretending to straighten her clothes or rummage for something in her bag, then quietly weep where William couldnt see her.
One evening, Rebecca came to collect William from her parents house. The boy was sitting on the rug, frowning in concentration over a jigsaw. As soon as he saw her, he sprang up.
Mum, look! he tugged her towards the rug. Ive nearly finished. Theres a house and a tree, and here heres a dog!
Rebecca knelt beside him, determined to smile.
Its wonderful, she said, stroking his hair. Youve done such a good job, putting it all together so neatly.
William thought for a moment, then looked up at her.
Mum, wheres my daddy? All the other kids at nursery have a daddy. Only I havent got one
Rebecca froze. Her heart clenched, yet she tried to keep her voice even.
I dont know, love. Your daddys far away right now. But he does think about you.
Why doesnt he ring? William frowned as though pondering a difficult riddle. Id tell him I learnt to tie my own shoelaces!
He hes just very busy, Rebecca mumbled, her throat tight. But Im sure hes proud of you.
William considered this, then nodded, seeming to accept it, and returned to his jigsaw.
All right. Then Ill finish this house and daddy will see how clever I am!
Rebecca watched him quietly, swallowing her tears. She longed to say something more, to comfort him, but couldnt find the words. Instead, she reached out and stroked his hair again, breathing in the scent of childrens shampoo, determined to savour this moment her son beside her, happy and trusting, despite all the questions she couldnt answer.
Yet Rebecca could not stop thinking about William Senior. Deep down, she still looked for excuses on his behalf. What if something dreadful happened to him? What if he was in trouble, unable to get in touch? These thoughts helped her function helped her avoid falling into despair.
Family and friends tried, time and again, to talk sense to her. Her mother gently hinted that she needed to focus on her son and her future. Friends were more blunt: He left you. You need to accept it and move on! But Rebecca refused to listen, insisting they had been happy, recalling promises hed made. The discussions always ended with her shutting down, and others, sighing, giving up.
Rebecca didnt sit idle, though. She checked social media, phoned old haunts he might visit, even posted messages asking for help in finding him. Nothing worked! But she couldnt or wouldnt accept that William had simply gone of his own accord, not intending to return.
Then, after five long years, a man came into Rebeccas life who finally thawed her heart. It was almost accidental: they met at a mutual friends birthday party. Edward caught her interest immediately. He was reliable the only word for it. He was genuine, kind, attentive simply the best!
From their very first dates, Rebecca felt she could be herself around Edward. He didnt expect her to put on a brave face or force a smile. If she was tired, hed just suggest they go home. If she wanted quiet, he didnt push her to talk. Edward was everything she had been searching for: serious, calm and, most importantly, sincerely in love.
Edwards feelings showed in the little things: how he learned which coffee she liked, remembered her colleagues names and asked after their wellbeing, how he quietly took on daily chores. He would have carried her on his shoulders if she let him, and, truth be told, Rebecca did take advantage of it.
What touched her most was how well Edward got along with little William. At their first meeting, the boy eyed the stranger warily, clinging to his mothers hand. But Edward surprised everyone he crouched down so he was level with William and asked what cartoons he liked. In half an hour, they were building a model together, William proudly showing off his favourite toys.
Gradually, Edward became a regular guest at Rebeccas parents house, where William lived. He took him to the park, taught him to ride his bike, read him stories at bedtime. One day, Rebecca found them drawing together and Edward, quietly, said, Id like to be a real dad to him. If you agree, Im ready to adopt William.
Lily was genuinely happy for her friend. She saw Rebecca changing before her eyes: the sparkle returning to her, the lines of worry fading, her smile becoming real. But that afternoon, Lily had made a misstep mentioning William Senior, stirring a wound. Now, she hoped Rebecca hadnt been too upset, or that she wouldnt let it bring her down.
To Lilys surprise, Rebecca composed herself.
Ive grown up, Rebecca said lightly, laying the dress out smoothly on the bed. I know my feelings for William must stay in the past. Sometimes I even regret giving my son his name I was stubborn, I wouldnt listen to anyones advice How did you all put up with me?
Lily reached out and squeezed her hand.
Are you thinking of taking William back home from your parents?
Yes, Rebecca replied, her tone suddenly serious. Edward is keen, too. He even suggested that we consider changing Williams name. He said it would make things easier for me. Well have to redo the birth certificate after the adoption paperwork anyway.
She paused, watching raindrops trace paths down the window.
You know, I used to fear William Junior would always remind me of the past. But now I see my mistake. Hes my son, and he deserves a proper childhood with two loving parents! Having his grandparents is wonderful, but its not quite the same. Edward understands that. He truly wants to be a father! You should see how attached hes grown to the little one!
A brilliant idea! Lily perked up. You could ask William what name hed like. It might help him adjust.
I dont know. I havent decided yet. Theres still time to think it over.
The truth was, Rebecca wasn’t being honest. She still loved William, and that love was as stubborn as ever. But it had brought her nothing but sorrow. Her parents, more and more, refused to allow her unsupervised time with her son she became emotional during visits, frightening the boy. Her friends didnt want to hear any more about her problems and doubted her sanity behind her back. It was time to let go and focus on the present.
The wedding, for instance.
Only, it was incredibly hard!
Edward, in every way, was a good man but he wasnt William. Rebecca didnt feel any deep connection to him, only used his devotion for her own comfort.
If William came back She would give anything to be at his side
*****
There won’t be a wedding! Rebecca announced, her eyes dancing, practically skipping around the room. Were parting ways, like ships that pass in the night!
Edward stared at her, bewildered. The wedding was a week away theyd planned the menu, chosen the flowers, sent out invitations. Everything was so real, so close And now she was saying there wouldnt be a wedding?
What do you mean, there wont be? He struggled to believe she was serious, not making some awful joke. Rebecca, whats going on? Please, explain.
But Rebecca just brushed aside his questions. She hurried to and fro, flinging clothes from the shelves into an open suitcase. Her eyes glowed, a smile danced on her lips uncharacteristic and, for once, truly genuine.
Williams back! she exclaimed, not meeting Edwards gaze. Her voice was so full of unfeigned joy that he felt something cold spread through his chest. He came back yesterday, we talked things through I couldnt believe at first it was real!
At last, she stopped and turned to him, her face bright with anticipation, not an ounce of regret only delight and excitement.
Im grateful for everything these last six months, she said, softening her tone. It was peaceful, comfortable with you Youre a wonderful man, Edward. But I never truly loved you. Now that I have a chance at real happiness, I cant ignore it.
Edward felt a chill expand inside him. William. Again, always William. The man Rebecca revered so much Edward often felt like an outsider. Hed known she still thought about him, but hoped time and shared life might change her heart.
Have you even talked to him? he managed at last, his voice strained. What did he say? Whats his excuse this time?
He didnt offer excuses, Rebecca replied sharply. He just said he realised the mistake hed made. That all hes done is think of me!
She turned away, still packing as Edward stood like a statue, feeling the world dull and fade.
We spoke on the phone, she continued, rifling through the drawers. His parents insisted he study abroad, and he couldnt warn me about leaving. Can you imagine? All this time he was thinking of me, just unable to get in touch. But now its all that matters well be together and live a happy life!
Rebeccas mind replayed that very call their first after all those years apart. Williams voice was trembling, a bit broken.
Rebecca, I know how terrible this all seems. But please understand my parents didnt give me a choice. They said, either I go to university in London, or theyd cut me off. I tried to resist, honestly I did But they blocked my bank cards, cut off my accounts. I didnt even have a phone anymore!
Why didnt you ring, just once? Rebeccas voice quavered; she struggled to hide her hurt.
I couldnt. What was I meant to say? Admit Id surrendered to my parents?
As she listened to his stumbling explanations, Rebecca felt the bitterness and grief of months melt away at the sound of his voice. She suddenly realised shed been waiting for this call all along.
Everything will be different now, William had said. Ive quit university, Im back. And Im never leaving again.
Those words echoed in her mind now as she stood before Edward.
She paused, cast her eyes quickly round the room as if checking shed left nothing behind. Only then did she notice Edwards pale face, frozen expression.
Dont worry, Rebecca added in a gentler, still unwavering tone. Ive already told everyone the weddings off. Explained everything, asked them to give you space. Of course, youll have people commiserating, but youre strong youll cope.
She wheeled the suitcase toward her, straightening the handle as if it were now the most important thing in the world, then looked at Edward again with neither regret nor doubt.
And please, dont call me, dont text, dont leave voice messages, she said firmly, almost like a command. My decision is final and nothing can change it.
She hefted the suitcase, swayed a moment under its weight, straightened and moved to the door, as if the slightest pause might shake her resolve.
Edward stood in the middle of the room, feeling everything inside him clamp tight with pain and confusion. He drew a deep breath, steeling himself. He longed to shout, to demand answers, but restrained himself he refused to appear desperate. He clenched his fists, then slowly relaxed them, managing a level, almost casual tone:
Perhaps youre rushing into this? he said, his gaze rooted on Rebecca.
She stopped at the door, her hand on the suitcase, but didnt turn. Her shoulders were tense, fingers clenched the leather grip.
What if he doesnt want to pick things up again? Edward pressed, moving closer. What if he refuses to acknowledge your son? Has he even proposed?
Rebecca swung round, her face alive with excitement and irritation. She marched a few steps toward Edward, as if trying to make him see sense.
Hes invited me for a proper talk! she burst out. Thats enough! And dont you dare try to smear him Williams not like that!
Her voice wavered at the last words, but she mastered herself, upright again, and yanked the suitcase to the door.
You could at least help, she muttered through gritted teeth, struggling with its weight.
Edward instinctively made to help, but held back. Why help someone whod just crushed his feelings? Besides, he could see she was already gone in her mind, off with William. The certainty almost euphoria showed in her eyes: a new life full of happiness and love was about to begin. She pictured William greeting her with a smile, telling her everything would be fine, theyd be together at last.
But reality was different. William, whod called her to arrange a proper talk, wasnt preparing to propose or pledge everlasting love. He wanted to explain, close an old chapter, and start a new one without Rebecca. He was, as it happened, already spoken for.
But Rebecca, blinded by her dreams, couldnt see the obvious. She had waited so long for this moment, she was willing to believe anything rather than face disappointment once more.
Dragging the case to the door, she paused, rested her hand on the handle, as if she might say something. She changed her mind, flung the door open and marched out without a backward glance.
Edward stood, looking at the shut door. Her perfume still lingered in the air, the final words echoing: Williams not like that!
Slowly, he slumped onto a chair, exhaustion sweeping over him in heavy waves. Everything had happened too fast, too irrevocably. Now, he had to learn to get on without Rebecca, without shared plans, without empty hopes
*****
William answered the door, surprised at such an early visit. There on the step stood Rebecca, flanked by two suitcases, her face glowing with joy and anticipation in her eyes. He froze, speechless. One thought whirled in his head: How could she have misread things so badly?
Hed thought it was all behind him. When Rebecca got serious with Edward, William had breathed a sigh of relief. Now he could return to his home town with his wife, no longer worried about awkward calls, tears or accusations. Hed almost been grateful to Rebecca for finding someone else it solved everything.
Yes, hed called her to set things straight and maybe meet, but that was simple courtesy!
And here she was, standing expectantly at his door with her luggage, hoping for more than just a chat. William instinctively backed up, fumbled for the right words.
Rebecca! she exclaimed as soon as she saw him. Ive made up my mind. Im here, and now we can finally be together!
Her voice was so sure, as though no other reality could possibly exist. She moved forward, but he held up his hand instinctively.
Rebecca, wait he began as gently as possible, theres something you dont know.
Her brow furrowed, the smile fading.
What do you mean? We agreed wed talk, sort it all out!
William took a deep breath, knowing this moment was unavoidable.
Im married, Rebecca. Two years now. My wife and I are very happy.
Rebecca froze, her eyes widening in shock. For several seconds, she said nothing, as if unable to process what shed heard. Then her face twisted, panic and outrage just beneath the surface.
What are you saying? she whispered, shaking her head. It cant be You rang me, you said everything had changed!
I called to say goodbye, properly, William said quietly. I wanted you to understand that time has moved on, that we each have our own lives now. It seems you took it a different way.
Rebecca stumbled back, fists clenching as she struggled for composure, but her emotions overflowed.
You you lied to me all this time! she cried, her voice shaking with anger. How could you? I gave up everything for you!
William felt frustration rising inside. He didnt want a scene, certainly not a row in the hallway, but Rebecca was going nowhere till shed had her say.
I never made you any promises, he said firmly. You decided wed be together. I was only trying not to hurt you. Now its all clear, isnt it?
Rebecca shrieked, grabbed a suitcase and hurled it to the floor. Her belongings scattered, but she didnt care. She screamed, accused, demanded explanations, her voice growing louder with each word.
In the end, William had to politely but firmly usher her outside. He shut the door, hoping it was finished. But Rebecca kept banging, yelling, calling his name. Neighbours began peering out; someone coughed pointedly, another threatened to call the police.
After an hour, as her shouting rose even higher and the neighbours really did threaten the police, she finally left. But before she rounded the corner, she turned to his door and through tears shouted,
Ill be back! Youll regret this!
William closed his eyes, feeling the weariness wash over him. He knew this was far from over. Rebecca was stubborn, and if she set her mind to something, she wouldnt let go easily.
He went to the lounge, sat on the sofa and reflected. He needed to act fast. Staying in this flat was no longer an option Rebecca might return, cause another scene, bother the neighbours. William pulled out his phone and opened a property site.
Ill have to sell the flat and find a new place, he decided. Somewhere on the other side of town
*****
Rebecca wandered through the streets, oblivious to everything around her. Tears blurred her vision; fragments of thought spun through her mind, leaving only heaviness and emptiness inside. She still couldnt grasp what had happened. In her mind, William was supposed to sweep her up, say hed been waiting for this moment, that theyd truly be together. But reality was cruel and unyielding.
She roamed the city for hours, trying to regain her composure, her feet ultimately bringing her to Edwards building. She stopped at the entrance, dabbed her tears, tidied her hair, hoping to look somewhat in control. Taking a deep breath, she climbed to the correct floor and pressed the bell, hesitantly.
Edward didnt open straight away. When he finally appeared, his face was shut, impassive. He simply stared at Rebecca, making no move to let her in.
Edward, please, she began, her voice trembling. I know what Ive done. I realise how stupid and cruel I was. But I I want to put it right.
She paused, searching for the right words. Tears glistened in her eyes again.
Ill never mention Williams name again, she went on, staring him in the eye. I promise. It was all a mistake. Ive realised its only you that can make me happy. Please give me another chance.
She sounded sincere, almost desperate. Right then, she truly believed it if only Edward would take her back, everything could be fixed.
Edward shook his head slowly. He wouldnt fall for that again.
Rebecca, he said quietly, youve already made your choice. Only a couple of hours ago you stood in my flat with your cases, telling me you were leaving for him. You seemed certain.
I was wrong then! she interrupted. I didnt know what I was doing! I was upset, I
Edward sighed, rubbing his hand through his hair. It wasnt easy, but he knew he couldnt just give in again.
You didnt just leave me you went running to him. You made your choice and Ive accepted it. Now that things havent worked out, you want to come back?
Yes! Rebecca insisted. Because I love you. Only you.
He was silent for a moment, then, unexpectedly firm, replied,
I dont believe your words any longer. Goodbye.
Rebecca felt as if something inside her had snapped. Edward looked at her calmly, without resentment, but also with no hint of doubt. He honestly didnt believe her any longer.
Please she whispered, the sound fading in her throat.
Im sorry, Edward said. But its for the best for both of us.
He closed the door, leaving Rebecca standing in the empty corridor. For several moments, she didnt move, then slowly sat down on a step, hid her face in her hands, and wept. This time, the tears werent of bitterness or rage, but from the sad truth: she had lost both William and Edward, and now had no idea at all how to go onWhen Rebecca finally stepped back out into the chilly dusk, the city seemed to blur at the edges. Neon signs flickered against wet pavement; somewhere, a buskers sad violin drifted across the street. She wandered aimlessly, the weight of silence at her side. Her thoughts raced, then emptied, leaving only exhaustion.
She ended up at the playground near her parents home, where William Juniors laughter once mingled with the squeals of other children. Climbing into a swing, knees drawn to her chest, she rocked slowly, the chains creaking. She watched the shadows lengthen, the world settling into night.
How fragile happiness had proven. How shed clung to memories, built castles of hope on their shaky ruins. Now she was left with nothing but herselfno lovers arms, no easy way back. But as the evening breeze cooled her cheeks, something else stirred: the memory of William Junior, his small warm hand squeezing hers, the hope bright in his questions.
Rebecca stood and walked homeward, step by aching step. Her parents opened the door, concern creasing their faces, but said nothing as she entered. Upstairs, she found William Junior sound asleep, his toy dog tucked beside him. Gently, she sat, watching him breathe, the rise and fall of a life shed nearly missed.
She ran her hand through his hair, whispering, Im here. Im really here now. For the first time, she let herself feel the pain and let it wash through herher losses, her mistakes, her longing for love. But as William Junior rolled toward her, mumbling contentedly, she realised that within her heartbreak, something had shifteda space was growing where forgiveness might one day live.
Tomorrow would be uncertain. Not the fresh start she’d longed for, but the first true one shed ever owned. In the soft dark, Rebecca closed her eyes and breathed through the ache, anchored by her sons quiet presence.
For now, it was enough.
