No Wedding After All
Lily stepped into the room and paused at the threshold. Before her stood Regina in a wedding dress, looking absolutely radiant. The gown fit her perfectly, and a quiet, almost weightless joy shone in her eyes. Lily couldnt hold back her admiration.
Goodness, youre glowing! she exclaimed, never taking her eyes off her friend. Im so delighted for you! At last, youve turned the page, opened your heart to something new, and let go of Nicholas. Youve done so well!
Reginas smile vanished in an instant; a fleeting look of discomfort crossed her face. She quickly reached for the buttons at her waist, avoiding Lilys gaze.
Id best take it off, she muttered, skilfully undoing delicate fasteners at her side. Still two weeks to go if anything happened to the dress, Id never find another like it in time.
Lily bit her lip, realising immediately shed made a blunder. Why mention Nicholas now, when Reginas finally met a man worthy of her? Nicholas wasnt worth a single one of Reginas tears, especially after all the hurt hed caused.
There was a time Regina believed Nicholas was the one. She thought what they had would last forever. Gradually, though, everything began to crumble. At first, he became distant and made excuses not to see her. Then he started criticising her decisions, her friends, her goals. He convinced her to leave a promising work project, persuaded her not to take an internship abroad, and insisted she change her entire career path.
Reginas family could only watch helplessly as she changed before their eyes, slowly losing herself. Any attempts to talk ended in rows; Nicholas had Regina convinced her family just didnt understand him and were trying to sabotage their perfect love. Communication with her parents grew tense until it all but dissolved.
And then he left. No explanation, not even a goodbye note, just a deep wound and a child that Regina chose to keep, no matter what.
Now, as her friend hurriedly slipped out of the wedding dress, Lily was filled with guilt. She wanted only to celebrate Reginas happiness, certainly not wake the ghosts of regret.
Nicholas Junior was four now a lively, inquisitive little boy who was always full of questions. One minute he wondered why the sky was blue, the next he marvelled at insects during walks. The staff at his nursery regularly praised his curiosity and quick grasp of things; he could learn poems by heart and loved listening to stories.
He spent most of his time with his grandparents Reginas parents who threw themselves into his upbringing, choosing a nursery with advanced English, taking him to swimming lessons, even signing him up for a dance class. Regina visited him several times a week, but never stayed long. The reason was as painful as it was simple: Nicholas Junior was the image of his father same dark curls, same cheeky smile, even the way he looked at her. Each time she held her son or met his eyes, tears stung her lashes. Shed turn away, fidget with her bag or straighten his jumper, and later cry quietly where no one could see.
One evening, Regina arrived at her parents house. Her son was on the rug, frowning with concentration as he pieced together a jigsaw puzzle. Seeing his mother, he leapt up and tugged her to join him.
Mum, look! He pointed at the puzzle. Theres a house here, and a tree and there thats where the dog goes!
Regina knelt beside him, forcing a smile.
Its wonderful, she said, stroking his hair. Youre very clever, you know.
Nicholas paused, then looked up at her.
Mum, wheres my dad? All the other kids at nursery have dads just not me
Regina froze, her insides twisting, though she tried to keep her voice even.
I dont know, sweetheart. Your daddys far away, thats all. But he thinks about you, he really does.
Why doesnt he call? Nicholas Jr. frowned, struggling to understand. I wanted to tell him I can tie my own shoes now!
He hes just terribly busy. Reginas voice threatened to break, but she persisted. Im sure hes very proud of you.
Her son studied her for a moment, then nodded, apparently satisfied, and returned to his puzzle.
Alright. Ill finish this house, and when Daddy sees, hell know how clever I am!
She watched him, blinking back tears. There was so much more she wished she could say, so many answers she didnt have. Instead, she simply reached out and smoothed his hair, breathing in the scent of his shampoo and savouring the moment her son by her side, happy and trusting, despite all the questions left unanswered.
Still, thoughts of Nicholas haunted Regina. In the quiet hours she searched for explanations, imagining something terrible had happened, that he was in some trouble, unable to reach out. These hopes kept her from falling into despair.
Her family tried gently to tell her to focus on her child, on her own life; her friends were more blunt He left you. Accept it and move on. Regina refused to listen. She would argue, recall how happy theyd been, reminisce about broken promises. Conversations inevitably ended with her withdrawing into herself, and her loved ones giving up with a sigh.
She didnt just wait, though. Regina scoured social media, called old haunts, even posted pleas for information. But nothing. She simply couldnt, or wouldnt, accept that Nicholas had simply left and wasnt coming back.
After five long years, someone new entered Reginas life someone who melted the ice around her heart quite unexpectedly. They met at a friends birthday. Edward drew her attention straightaway. He was reliable. Sincere, kind, caring truly good.
From their first meetings, Regina realised she could be herself around Edward. He never demanded false cheer or constant smiles. If she was tired, hed suggest going home. If she was quiet, hed give her space. He was exactly the kind of man she hadnt dared hope for steady, thoughtful, genuinely devoted.
Edwards affection showed in the smallest things: remembering how she liked her tea, remembering her colleagues names and enquiring after them, quietly sorting all lifes practicalities. He doted on her, and truth be told Regina rather liked being cherished.
She was particularly touched by how Edward bonded with Nicholas. The first time they met, her son eyed Edward suspiciously, clutching his mothers hand. Edward surprised her then, too crouching to Nicholass level, asking what cartoons he liked. Half an hour later, they were building Lego together, with Nicholas chattering away, excitedly showing off his favourite toys.
In time, Edward became a regular visitor at Reginas parents home. He took Nicholas to the park, taught him to ride a bike, read him stories at bedtime. Once, when Regina found them painting together, Edward quietly said, Id like to be a real father to him. If youre willing, I would like to adopt Nicholas.
Lily was genuinely happy for her friend. She saw how Regina changed: the spark in her eyes, the vanishing shadows, the unforced, genuine smile. Still, Lily worried shed made a clumsy mistake, bringing up Nicholas Senior today. She could only hope she hadnt dragged Regina back into melancholy.
Yet Regina seemed surprisingly composed.
Ive grown up, she said with a soft smile, laying the dress carefully on the bed. I know now my feelings for Nicholas belong in the past. Sometimes I regret naming my son after him. I was stubborn then goodness knows how you all put up with me!
Lily gently squeezed her hand.
Are you going to bring Nicholas back to live with you?
Yes, Regina replied seriously. Edward is quite insistent. Hes even suggested changing my sons name says it would be easier for everyone, especially once the adoption is formal. Im not sure yet. Theres time to decide.
Truthfully, Regina wasnt certain. She still loved Nicholas, and that love hadnt faded. But it hadnt brought her anything but sorrow. Her parents were increasingly reluctant to let her see her son, because she often ended up in tears, alarming the boy. Her friends, too, had run out of patience and doubted her soundness. It was time to let go of the past and live in the present.
Like at her wedding, for instance
If only, it wasnt so endlessly difficult.
Edward was a good man, but he wasnt Nicholas. Regina didnt feel any deep love for him. She simply let herself enjoy his affection for her own comfort.
If Nicholas came back, shed give anything to be by his side.
**********
There wont be a wedding! Regina declared, her eyes alight, almost dancing on the spot. Were parting ways ships in the night!
Edward stared at her in disbelief. The wedding was a week away. Theyd chosen the menu, selected the flowers, invited the guests. Everything felt real, palpable and now she had called the whole thing off?
What do you mean, there wont be a wedding? he managed, trying to work out whether she was serious or making a poor joke. Regina, whats happened? Please, explain properly.
But Regina only waved him away, darting around the room as she pulled things from shelves and stuffed them into an open suitcase. Her eyes sparkled; a strange, unfamiliar smile played on her lips.
Nicholas is back! she blurted, without looking at him, her voice full of unrestrained happiness. He came yesterday. Weve made amends At first, I couldnt believe it!
She finally turned to him, her face alive with excitement and impatience.
Im thankful for the last several months, truly, she went on, her tone softening slightly. You made my life comfortable, peaceful. Youre a lovely man, Edward. But Ive never truly loved you. Now Ive got a chance at real happiness, and I cant I wont let it slip by.
Edwards heart turned cold. Nicholas. Again. That name she spoke with such reverence hed always felt an outsider. Hed known she still cared, but hoped time would heal her.
Youve spoken with him already? he asked quietly, struggling for breath. What excuse did he give this time?
He didnt offer excuses, Regina retorted. He simply said he understands the mistake he made, that all this time hes only thought of me!
She turned away, sorting through her dresser to make sure she hadnt forgotten anything important. Edward stood rooted, feeling his world drain of colour.
We talked on the phone, Regina continued. His parents forced him to study abroad. He couldnt contact me, you see. The whole time, he thought only of me but now its different. Now hes back, and everything will be perfect!
Regina recalled that conversation, their first in years. Nicholas sounded flustered, almost breathless:
Regina, I know how dreadful it looks. But youve got to believe me my parents gave me an ultimatum. It was Oxford or nothing. If I refused, they threatened to cut me off. They cancelled my cards, closed all my accounts I didnt even have a phone
Why didnt you call me, just once? She tried to keep her voice steady.
I couldnt. What would I have said? That I caved in so easily?
As shed listened to his explanations, Regina felt warmth flooding back into her. All the bitterness seemed to dissolve. She realised shed been waiting for this moment all along.
Itll be different now, Nicholas had insisted. Ive come home and Im never leaving again.
Those words echoed in her mind as she faced Edward.
She paused, checking shed packed everything, finally noticing Edwards pallor. His face was ashen, his gaze distant.
Dont fret, she added, her tone firm. Ive told everyone the weddings off. Warned them not to bother you. Of course, youll get plenty of sympathy, but youre strong youll manage.
She grabbed her suitcase, adjusting the handle as though it were the most important thing. Meeting his eyes, her expression was steeled.
And please, dont call or send messages. My decision is final and nothing will change it.
He stood in the room, pain twisting inside. He wanted to scream or beg for answers, but checked himself he wouldnt appear desperate. He clenched his fists, then relaxed them, finally speaking in a calm, almost routine tone:
Are you sure you arent rushing this? he asked, watching her closely.
Regina didnt turn, hand still on the suitcase handle, shoulders stiff.
What if he doesnt want to pick up where you left off? Edward pressed, stepping closer. What if he doesnt claim your son? Has he even proposed?
Regina spun, her cheeks flushed with both anger and thrill.
Hes asked to have a serious talk. Thats enough! And dont try to paint him as the villain Nicholas isnt like that!
Her voice wobbled, but she straightened, determined. Again, she reached for the door, tugging her suitcase.
A little help wouldnt hurt, she muttered through gritted teeth, struggling with its weight.
For a moment, Edward instinctively moved, then stopped. Why offer help to someone who had just trampled all over his feelings? He saw clearly she was already half gone, her mind in some new imagined future with Nicholas. He could see the certainty, almost euphoria, in her eyes she was sure that soon her real life, full of love and happiness, would begin.
But reality was far different. Nicholas was only meeting her for that serious talk to tie up loose ends not to propose, not to reunite. He had moved on.
Regina, lost in her dreams, saw only what she wished, blind to the obvious. Shed waited so long, she would cling to any hope.
Hauling the suitcase to the door and halting one last moment, she almost spoke, but thought better of it, wrenched the door open and left without looking back.
Edward stared at the closed door. The light scent of her perfume lingered, her last words ringing in his ears: Nicholas isnt like that.
He sat down heavily, exhaustion pressing in. Everything had ended swiftly, irrevocably. Now, he would have to remake his life without Regina, without plans, and without illusion.
**********
Nicholas opened the door, surprised by such an early visitor. There was Regina, suitcase in hand, eyes bright with anticipation. He froze, a single thought in his mind: How could she get it all so wrong?
He had thought it over, thought it finished. When Regina began dating Edward, Nicholas had finally relaxed. Now he could return to his home city, live quietly with his wife, without fear of sudden calls or drama. He was almost grateful Regina had moved on.
Yes, hed called her. He wanted to clear things up, suggested a meeting out of politeness nothing more.
But now, here she was on his doorstep, clearly expecting something quite different. Nicholas stepped back, grasping for words.
Nicholas! Regina called, beams of delight crossing her face. Im here, and now we can finally be together!
She moved forward, but Nicholas raised a hand.
Regina, wait You dont know everything.
She frowned, her smile fading.
What do you mean? We agreed to meet and talk this through!
Nicholas took a deep breath, bracing himself.
Im married, Regina. I have been for two years. My wife and I are very happy.
She fell silent, eyes widening with shock. For a moment, she looked as if she simply could not absorb this news. Then hurt and anger swept across her face.
Thats not true! she whispered, voice trembling. You called, said everything had changed!
I called to say goodbye properly, Nicholas answered quietly. To explain we have our own lives now. Im sorry you misunderstood.
Regina took a step back, fists clenched emotions overflowing.
You lied to me! she shouted, tearful. How could you? I gave up everything for you!
Nicholas felt a flash of irritation. He wanted no row, no justifications.
I never made you any promises, he said firmly. You decided yourself what the future would be. I tried to spare your feelings, but now its all clear.
Regina wailed, grabbed one suitcase and hurled it. Clothes spilled everywhere, but she didnt care. She stood there screaming, blaming, needing answers.
Nicholas was left with no choice but to politely, insistently send her on her way. He shut the door, hoping that was the end. But she didnt let up she hammered the door, called him by name, disturbing the neighbours. Some peered out, some muttered under their breath.
After an hour, when her shouting had reached full volume and the neighbours threatened to call the police, she finally retreated. Before she left, she cast a tearful glance at the flat and cried:
Ill be back! Youll regret this!
Nicholas closed his eyes as exhaustion swept over him. He knew this was not the end. Regina was determined; once she set her mind to something, she never let go.
He moved to the living room and sat, tallying his options. Hed have to sell the flat and move across London. It was the only way.
**********
Regina wandered through the rainy streets, not seeing anything with clarity. Her cheeks were streaked with tears, her thoughts fractured, her heart heavy and empty. She still couldnt grasp what had happened. In her mind, Nicholas would welcome her with open arms. Instead, reality had been sharp and unkind.
She wandered for ages, before her feet carried her, almost unconsciously, to Edwards flat. She wiped her eyes, straightened her hair at least she could try to look put together. Taking a deep breath, she rang the bell.
Edward took a while to open the door. When he did, his face was cold and distant. He said nothing, made no move to invite her in.
Edward, please, she began, her voice shaky, I know what Ive done. I know how foolish, how cruel I was. But I want to make it right.
She trailed off, searching for the right words. Tears threatened again.
Ill never mention Nicholas again, I promise. Please, give me another chance. Ive realised youre the only person I want to be with.
She meant what she said in this moment, with nowhere else to turn, she convinced herself that if Edward forgave her, everything would be alright again.
Edward shook his head slowly.
Regina, he said quietly, you already made your choice. Only a few hours ago, you were here with your things, certain you wanted to go to him.
I was wrong! she cried. I didnt know what I was doing!
Edward sighed, rubbing his face. It was difficult, but he was firm.
You didnt just walk away from me, Regina. You walked to someone else. You chose. Now that things didnt work out, you want to come back?
Yes! she insisted. Because I love you. Only you.
He didnt say anything for a while. Then, with a small, sad smile, he concluded:
I cant believe in your words anymore. Goodbye, Regina.
Her insides collapsed as the meaning of his words sank in. He looked at her kindly, with no grudge, just certainty. His trust was gone.
Please she whispered, but her voice vanished.
Im sorry. This is for the best.
He closed the door, leaving her in the empty corridor. She sat down on a step, covered her face, and wept. This time, her tears were not for anger or regret, but for the bitter clarity that in chasing a dream, she had lost both the past and the present, and now must face life, alone.
And so, life taught Regina a lesson: sometimes, while looking back for yesterdays happiness, we overlook the love thats right in front of us and by the time we realise, its already too late.
