My late mother once gave me a ring that had been passed down through generations. She left it to me as her eldest child. My younger brothers never took much stock in such family traditions, so I decided to propose to my girlfriend using this ring. My girlfriend was overjoyed. However, a few weeks after I proposed, my brother announced that he wanted to propose to his girlfriend with that same ring.
Sorry, mate, but Ive already proposed to my girlfriend with it, I told him.
How can you give it to someone youve only known for a few months? he shouted. And what happens if the two of you split up? What then?
My brother has been living with his girlfriend for five years. Our mother was quite fond of Charlotte, his girlfriend, but she never promised the ring to my brother.
I thought you werent going to marry Charlotte, and anyway, Mum gave me the ring as her eldest son, I replied.
My brother and I argued endlessly. In the end, I decided not to invite him to my wedding. But I knew there was no chance he would let the occasion pass without causing a scene.
Naturally, he turned up at the wedding and started a full-blown row:
Ladies and gentlemen, I know youre here to share in the happiness of the bride and groom, but no one realises that my brother is a thief.
I saw everyone glancing at each other, whispering among themselves.
His bride is a thief too. Together, theyve stolen our mothers wedding ring
The wedding went on, but of course, the celebration was spoiled. My wife was deeply upset. My brother and I didnt speak for six months. Only my youngest brother kept in touch with me. Recently, my youngest brother told me hes getting married and would like us to come to his wedding. I instantly recalled how my brother had treated me, so I refused to go. Now everyone thinks Im heartless. My brother and I once got on brilliantly, but now I have no desire to speak to him. Its hard to imagine ever forgetting how he ruined the most important day of my life.
