Jane and William were wed over a year ago now. Their parents, from both sides, arranged a lavish wedding celebration. As they were the only children in their respective families, it was decided that their marriage would be a grand affair, with no expense spared. Although the bride and groom had hoped for a modest gathering of friends over a barbecue after the ceremony, their mothers had always dreamed of a grand wedding, a white dress, and a horse-drawn carriage.
Realising they stood no chance against the desire for a ball, Jane and William committed themselves fully to the preparations. There was a great deal to do: manicures, makeup, the purchase of the dress and suit, not to mention countless other small but crucial details. Their parents agreed to cover all expenses except for Janes wedding dress and Williams suit. The finest restaurant in town was reserved, the perfect bouquet selected for the bride, and the wedding cake was to be baked by Williams mothers old friend Gladys, renowned for her prowess in the kitchen.
The guest list was carefully drafted by the parents, who wanted to invite all the relatives, even those with whom contact had been rare over the years. They justified their choices on the grounds that these guests were well-off, and their gifts would likely be generous, perhaps helping the newlyweds to buy a car or save for a flat. After a heated debate, it was decided not to include particularly distant cousins. Some relatives, citing plausible excuses, declined to attend. In the end, the guest list consisted mainly of the young couples friends, much to Jane and Williams satisfaction.
On the wedding day, the weather was glorious, although rain had been forecast that morning. Jane looked stunning in a silk gown adorned with delicate lace. William could scarcely take his eyes off his bride throughout the day, she was simply enchanting. The day was filled with happiness and laughter. The photographer worked tirelessly, clicking away with commendable zeal, while the guests eagerly anticipated the banquet at the restaurant.
After the photo session, the newlyweds climbed into a snowy-white carriage and set off toward the restaurant. Champagne flowed freely and congratulations poured in. Gifts were presentedmostly envelopes containing cash. The couple had politely informed their guests beforehand that monetary gifts were preferred, but a few pensioner-aged invitees couldnt resist giving blankets, bed linens, and crockery.
The three-tiered cake astounded even the most discerning guests with its elegance and beauty. It was decorated with luxurious lace, cream-coloured blooms, and pearls. The entire affair was splendid. Only in the early morning did the weary guests finally make their way home, while Jane and William retired to their hotel room, booked in advance.
The following day, when Jane and William visited her parents home, Janes mother told her that one of the envelopes had been empty. She explained that the envelope had been given by Janes close friend, Charlotte. Unlike the others, this envelope hadnt been signed, so it was easy to determine its origin. Upon hearing this, Jane felt deeply upset.
Matters were made worse by the fact that before the wedding, Charlotte had insisted it was customary to give no less than a thousand pounds and assured Jane she would certainly support her friend generously.
Less than a year later, Charlotte herself became a bride and invited Jane and her husband to her own wedding. She quickly advised Jane to present cash, as the couple hoped the gifts would more than cover the cost of their nuptials. Jane and William began to ponder their options. Jane suggested giving Charlotte an empty envelope, just as she had received. William proposed gifting more than usual to shame her. Meanwhile, Janes mother advised her to simply put the minimum amount in the envelopethis way, Jane wouldnt reveal her knowledge of the deception, nor would she seek revenge.
With her friends wedding fast approaching, Jane found herself unable to make a decision on her own.
