There will be No Wedding
Lily stepped quietly into the drawing room and paused, struck by the scene before her. There stood Rebecca, dressed as a bride, radiant and the very picture of happiness. The dress hugged her silhouette perfectly, and her eyes shone with a gentle, delicate joy. Lily couldnt contain her excitement.
Goodness, you look positively luminous! she cried, unable to take her eyes off her friend. Im so happy for you, truly! At last, youre letting go of the past and opening your heart againyoure finally over Nicholas! Im so proud of you.
Rebeccas smile faded, and her features tightened imperceptibly. She quickly reached for the buttons at the side of her gown, averting her gaze from Lily.
I should take this off, she muttered, deftly unfastening the hooks. The wedding is only a fortnight away. If anything happens to the dress, theres no chance of finding another like it.
Lily bit her lip, realising at once shed gone too far. Why had she mentioned Nicholas now, when Rebecca had finally found someone decent and loving? There was no point in stirring memories best left buried. After everything Nicholas had done, he wasnt worth a single tear Rebecca had shed.
Once, Rebecca had believed Nicholas to be her soulmate. Shed thought what they shared was lasting, that it was meant to be. But things had begun to unravel. At first hed grown distant and found excuses not to meet; later hed criticised her friends, her work, her aspirations openly. Hed talked her out of an excellent job project, persuaded her not to accept that placement abroad, and in the end, insisted she change her entire profession.
Rebeccas family could hardly recognise her anymore. They saw how she was changing, losing herself, but their concern only led to rows. Nicholas convinced her their perfect love was the target of her familys disapproval and interference. The arguments escalated, and, inevitably, Rebecca grew estranged from her parents.
Then, one day, Nicholas simply vanished. He left without a word, no note, no goodbye. All that remained was a deep emotional woundand a child, whom Rebecca chose to keep, come what may.
Watching her friend hastily shed her bridal gown, Lilys guilt gnawed at her. Shed only wanted to see Rebecca happy, to celebrate with her. The last thing shed intended was to unearth painful ghosts.
Now, little NicholasNick, as they called himwas four years old. He was a lively, inquisitive child, always bustling with questionswhy the sky was blue, where the clouds drifted, admiring every beetle in the garden. His nursery teachers remarked often on his sharp mind; he learned quickly, could recite long stories by heart, and took everything in with keen interest.
Rebecca’s parents, Nicks grandparents, had gladly embraced the role of caretakers, nurturing his development. It was they who had insisted on a nursery with early English lessons, who took him swimming, and introduced him to dancing classes. Rebecca would visit a few times each week, but rarely stayed for more than an hour.
The reason was both clear and painful. Young Nick looked strikingly like his father: the same curling dark hair, the same mischievous smile, the same almond-shaped eyes. Every time Rebecca saw him, she was transported back to those hope-filled daysdays she believed belonged to a happy family. She loved her son fiercely, was proud of him, cherished his laughter. Yet each time she held him or gazed into his eyes, sharp sorrow would catch at her heart. She’d turn away or fuss with her bag, hiding tears that welled unbidden whenever Nick wasnt looking.
One evening, Rebecca arrived at her parents house to collect her son. Nick was on the carpet, frowning in concentration as he worked at a puzzle. When he saw his mother, he leaped up and ran to her with delight.
Mummylook! Im nearly done. Theres a house, a treeand soon, just here, a dog!
Rebecca knelt beside him, attempting a smile. Thats wonderful, she said, ruffling his hair. Youre so carefulwell be finished in no time.
Nick paused and looked up at her, thoughtful.
Mummy, where is my daddy? All the children at nursery have a daddyexcept me.
Rebecca froze. Inside, her heart clenched. She tried to sound calm: I dont know, darling. Daddy is far away just now. But he thinks of you, he does.
Then why doesnt he call? Nick frowned as if considering a puzzle. Id tell him that I can tie my own shoelaces now!
Hes hes terribly busy, Rebecca managed, her throat tight with unshed tears. But Im sure hes proud of you.
Nick pondered this, then nodded solemnly and returned to his puzzle. Alright. Ill finish this house, and Daddy will see how clever I am!
Rebecca watched silently, gently stroking his hair and drawing comfort from the closeness, trying to hold on to this momenther son, happy and naive, still trusting, even if she had no answers for all his questions.
Despite everything, Rebecca still thought of Nicholas. Deep down, she made excuses for him. Perhaps something dreadful had happened to him? Perhaps he’d got into trouble and truly couldnt make contact? The thought was a lifeline, keeping despair at bay.
Her family had tried more than once to reason with her. Her mother, ever gentle, urged Rebecca to live in the presentfor Nicks sake and her own. Friends were more blunt: He left you. Its time you accepted it and moved forward. Rebecca resistedshe insisted there must be a reason, recalling the happiness theyd once shared, the promises hed made. Such conversations usually ended with her withdrawing in silence.
Still, Rebecca didnt sit idle. She checked Facebook, rang around old acquaintances, posted messages asking for help tracking him downbut it was futile. Yet she refused to accept that Nicholas had simply chosen to leave and never return.
Five long years passed before someone else entered her life and began to thaw her heart. It happened by chanceat the birthday party of a mutual friend. Edward was immediately different: dependable, genuine, kind, considerate. He was, in every sense, a good man.
From their very first meetings, Rebecca sensed she could be herself around Edward. He didnt expect false cheer or endless smilesif she was tired, he offered to take her home; if she was quiet, he didnt force conversation. In Edward, she found the seriousness and steadiness shed longed forand, above all, sincere affection.
Edward showed his feelings in the smallest ways: remembering how she took her tea, asking after her colleagues by name, and quietly taking care of everyday tasks. He would have carried her in his arms had she let him, and Rebecca, truth be told, made the most of his devotion.
What touched her most was how Edward bonded with Nick. On their first meeting, Nick eyed the stranger warily, clinging to his mothers handbut Edward got down on one knee, at Nicks eye level, and asked what cartoons he liked. Within half an hour, they were building things together, and Nick was proudly showing him all his favourite toys.
Soon, Edward was often at her parents house, taking Nick to the park, teaching him to ride a bicycle, reading to him before bed. Once, Rebecca walked in to find them drawing together, and Edward simply said, Id like to be a real father to him. If youll let me, Id like to adopt Nick.
Lily was genuinely glad for her friend. She could see Rebecca coming back to herselfher eyes brighter, her old worries fading, her smile now effortless and real. But that day, Lily had made a clumsy mistakebringing up Nicholas in the conversation. She only hoped Rebecca hadnt been too upset.
To Lilys surprise, Rebecca handled it calmly.
Ive grown up now, she said with a wry smile, carefully laying the dress on the bed. Im certain my feelings for Nicholas have no place in my future. Sometimes I even regret naming my son after him. I was foolishdidnt heed anyones advice How did you all put up with me?
Gently, Lily squeezed her hand.
Do you plan to bring Nick home from your parents?
Yes, Rebecca answered, her expression suddenly grave. Edward thinks so, especially. Hes even suggested changing Nicks name. Says it would help me move on. Well need to redo the birth certificate anyway, for the adoption.
She looked out the rain-splattered window for a moment.
I used to think Nick would always remind me of the past. Now I see I was wrong. Hes my son, and he deserves a proper childhood, with two loving parents! Grandparents are wonderful, but they cant replace usEdward knows this. He really does want to be Nicks father! You should see the bond between them!
Brilliant idea! Lily brightened. You could ask him what name he fancies. That way, hell feel part of it all.
Im not sure. Ill think about it. Theres still time.
But in truth, Rebecca was not being quite honest. Her feelings for Nicholas still hadnt diedthat love lingered, fruitless and painful. Her parents were growing reluctant to let her see Nick, as she often ended up in tears and frightened the boy. Her friends had run out of patience, and she knew she had to put the past behind her and focus on what she had now.
On the wedding, for a start.
But it was dreadfully hard!
Edward was everything decent, buthe wasnt Nicholas. Rebecca could not bring herself to truly love him, though she accepted his affection and warmth.
If Nicholas appeared again she would trade everything to be at his side
***************************
There wont be a wedding! Rebecca declared, eyes ablaze, practically skipping about the room. We’re parting like ships in the night!
Edward looked at her in disbelief, struggling to take it in. The wedding was a mere week awaythe menu set, flowers chosen, the guest list sorted. Everything felt so certain, so imminent and now she was saying thered be no wedding?
What do you mean no wedding? he asked, unable to decide if she was being serious or simply joking in very poor taste. Rebecca, whats happened? Please explain.
Rebecca brushed off his questions, darting around the room snatching belongings and tossing them into an open suitcase. Her smile was wild and unrestraineda giddy, almost feverish happiness.
Nicholas has come back! she blurted, not looking at Edward. Her happiness was so evident, it made him feel suddenly hollow inside. He returned yesterday, we talked it all outI could hardly believe it was real!
She finally stopped, facing Edward, her eyes shining with certainty and excitement, not a hint of doubt in them.
Im grateful for these past months, she continued, a little more gently. You made me feel safe, contented Youre a good man, Edward. But Ive never truly loved you. Now, with a real chance for happiness, I cant turn it down.
A piercing coldness crept into Edwards chest. Nicholas. Again Nicholas. The very name she had always spoken with such longing that Edward always felt like an outsider. Hed known she still thought of him, but had hoped time might change that.
Did you see him? What did he say? Whats his excuse this time? he asked, voice strained and tight.
He didnt make excuses, Rebecca answered sharply. He said he realised the mistake he made, and never stopped thinking of me!
She turned away again, sorting through her things in the desk, checking shed missed nothing important. Edward stood motionless, feeling the colour drain from the world around him.
We spoke by phone, she went on, rifling a drawer, His parents forced him into university in London and he couldnt warn me. Imagine! All this time he only thought of me but couldnt get in touch. But nownow its all different. Well be together at last!
Rebeccas mind flashed back to that very call. She could still hear Nicholass anxious voice, unsteady:
Rebecca, I know it looks awful. But my parents gave me no say. Either I agreed to study in London or theyd disown me. I really tried to resist. They froze my accounts, cut off all my cardsI didnt even have a phone!
Why didnt you phone me, just once? her voice had trembled, though she tried not to show it.
I couldnt. What could I possibly say? That Id failed, that Id let my parents rule my life?
Listening to him, all her old bitterness melted away. She realised she had been waiting for this call every single day.
Everythings changed, Nicholas had said. Ive quit and come home. I wont leave again.
Those words echoed in her mind as she now faced Edward.
She paused, glancing round the room quickly to ensure shed forgotten nothing. Only now did she notice Edwards pale face, ashen and frozen, his stare fixed beyond her.
Dont worry, Rebecca said rather kindly but firmly. I’ve told everyone the weddings cancelled. Ive asked them not to bother you; expect a bit of sympathy but youll be fine.
She dragged her suitcase closer, fiddling importantly with the handle, then looked up.
And please, dont call me, dont send pointless texts or voice messages, she declared, her tone almost forbidding. My decision is final and nothing will change it!
Clutching the case, she fought to steady its weight, then walked determinedly to the doorafraid any pause might weaken her resolve.
Edward stood where shed left him, numb with hurt and confusion. He drew a slow breath, trying to collect himself. He wanted to shout, to demand answers, but he held backnot wanting to appear desperate. He clenched his fists, then deliberately relaxed them, forcing himself to sound calm, almost matter-of-fact:
Are you sure youre not rushing? he said softly, fixing her with a steady gaze.
She hesitated at the door, hand gripping the handle, her shoulders tense.
And suppose he doesnt want to pick up where you left off? Edward continued, stepping nearer. Or refuses to acknowledge Nick? Or has he already offered for your hand?
Rebecca spun around, cheeks flushed, eyes blazing. She took several angry, purposeful steps towards him, as if determined to prove her point.
Hes asked me for a serious talk! Thats enough! And dont malign himNicholas isnt like that!
Her voice wavered at the end, but she quickly mastered herself, straightening and again dragging the suitcase towards the door.
You might at least help, she muttered through clenched teeth, heaving the case.
Edward instinctively stepped forward as if to assist, but stopped. Why would he help someone who had just trampled on his heart? He could see so clearly: Rebeccas thoughts were already elsewhere, her mind spinning with dreams of Nicholas welcoming her back, joyful and ready to start anew.
But the reality was not so. Nicholas, when hed called for an important conversation, had no intention of making proposals or vows. He merely wanted closure, to explain thingsand to move on. Especially since he already had someone new.
But Rebecca, blinded by hope, ignored all signs. She had waited so long that she was ready to believe anythingso long as she wouldn’t be disappointed again.
Hauling her bag to the threshold, she paused a moment, hand poised to say something, then thought better of it. With a jerk, she flung open the door and left, never looking back.
Edward sank into a chair, staring at the closed door. The faintest trace of her perfume lingered, along with her parting words: Nicholas isnt like that!
He sat very still, exhaustion settling over him in waves. Everything had changed so suddenly, so absolutely. Now, he would need to figure out how to live without Rebecca, without shared plans, without a future hed once believed in
***************************
Nicholas answered the door, surprised at such an early visitor. Rebecca stood on the step with two suitcases, her face alight with anticipation. Nicholas was momentarily speechless. Only one thought circled through his mind: How had she gotten things so wrong?
Hed been certain it was over between them. When Rebecca had begun seeing Edward, Nicholas had breathed a sigh of relief. He could move back home to his own city now, live with his wife without fear of sudden phone calls, tears, or accusations. In his own mind, hed thanked Rebecca for moving onit solved everything.
Yes, hed phoned her to set things right, invited her to meet for a civilised chatbut it was only meant as a formality!
And now here she was at his doorstep, suitcases in tow, clearly expecting far more than a brief conversation. Nicholas stepped back, searching for the right words.
Nicholas! Rebecca exclaimed, breathless with excitement. Ive made my decision. Im herewere going to be together!
Her certainty was unshakeable. She took a step forward, but Nicholas instinctively raised a hand to stop her.
Rebecca, wait he began, trying to speak as gently as he could. Theres something you dont know.
She frowned, the smile slowly fading.
What do you mean? We agreed to meet and talk, didnt we?
Nicholas sighed, knowing it was inevitable. Rebecca, Im married. Its been two years now. My wife and I are happy.
Rebecca froze, eyes widening in disbelief. She was silent for several moments, unable to process his words. Then her face crumpledshock, hurt and anger mingling in her gaze.
What are you saying? she whispered, shaking her head. That cant be You called me, you said things had changed!
I called simply to say goodbye properly, Nicholas replied quietly. That it was time to put the past behind us. I see now you understood differently.
Rebecca stepped back, hands trembling, fists clenched, trying to compose herself.
You you lied to me, all this time! she shouted, her voice shaking. How could you do this? I gave up everything for you!
Nicholas felt irritation rise. He didnt want a scene but Rebecca was determined not to leave without one.
I never promised you anything, he said firmly. You made up your mind about us. I just didnt want to hurt you, so I was careful with my words. But now, its clear, isnt it?
Rebecca cried out, grabbed a suitcase and hurled it to the floor, scattering belongings down the hall. She screamed, demanded explanations, her voice growing louder and louder.
At last, Nicholas had little choice but to firmly usher her out into the corridor and close the door, hoping that would be the end of it. But Rebecca continued to shout and bang on the door, calling his name. Neighbours peered out, some complaining loudly.
After an hour, when her cries had only grown more frantic and the neighbours threatened to call the police, Rebecca finally left. Before turning away, she looked at Nicholass door, shouting between sobs, Ill be back! Youll regret this!
Nicholas closed his eyes, feeling utterly worn out. He knew this was not over. Rebecca was stubborn and wouldnt give up easily.
He wandered into the sitting room, sank into the sofa, and thought glumly. Something had to be done. He couldnt remain in this flatnot if Rebecca might show up and stir another scene. He reached for his mobile and browsed property listings.
Ill need to sell this place and find a new one, he decided. Preferably on the other side of town
*********************
Rebecca walked through the streets, blind to her surroundings. Tears blurred her vision; her mind a tangle of broken thoughts, her heart hollow and heavy. She could not quite believe what had happened. In her imagination, Nicholas was to greet her with open arms and words of longing; reality had been anything butcruel and cold.
She wandered the city for hours, summoning the courage to face what came next. Slowly, her feet led her to Edwards house. Standing outside the front door, she wiped at her tears, tried to tidy her hairhoping at least to appear composed. Taking a deep breath, she climbed the steps and shakily pressed the bell.
Edward didnt open the door immediately, but when he did, his face was closed off. He looked at Rebecca, making no move to invite her inside.
Edward, please, she began, her voice trembling. I know what Ive done. I see now just how thoughtless and cruel it was. But I I want to set things right.
She faltered, searching for words. Tears welled again.
Ill never say Nicholass name again, she promised, meeting his eyes. I swear. All of that was a mistake. I realise now the only happiness Ill ever find is with you. Please, give me another chance.
Her words rang with a raw, desperate sincerity. In this moment, she truly believed themif only Edward would forgive her, perhaps everything might be well again.
Edward shook his head slowly. Nohe would not fall for this a second time.
Rebecca, he said softly, you made your choice. Just a few hours ago, you stood in my living room with your suitcases, saying you were leavingfor him. You were so sure.
I was wrong then! she cried, cutting in. I didnt know what I was doing! I was emotional. I
He sighed, running a hand through his hair. It wasnt easy, but he knew he had to stand firm.
You didnt just leave meyou went to him. That was your decision, and Ive accepted it. And now, when things havent gone your way, you want to come back?
Yes! Rebecca burst out. Because I love you. Only you.
He paused a moment, then a faint, ironic smile touched his lips as he said, I cant believe your words any more. Goodbye.
Rebecca felt something break inside her. Edward met her gaze calmly, not unkindly, but there was not a trace of hesitation in his eyes. He truly no longer believed in her.
Please she whispered, voice trailing away.
Im sorry, said Edward. But this truly is for the best.
He closed the door, leaving Rebecca alone in the hallway. For a long moment she stood there, then slowly slumped to the stairs, buried her face in her hands, and wept. This time, it was not disappointment or anger that made her cry, but the bitter truth that shed lost them bothNicholas and Edwardand had no idea how to begin again.
