Emily had no desire whatsoever to get married. At nineteen, however, she found herself pregnant by Oliver, her classmate shed been dating for three years. She felt she had no real choice she didnt want her child to grow up without a father.
Though Oliver was older than Emily, he remained immature, always a bit timid and indecisive. Still, he didnt shy away from his responsibilities; he promised to marry Emily and raise their child together. So, wedding preparations began.
Emily would have been perfectly happy with a small ceremony, but her relatives insisted on a grand affair. She couldnt fathom why they needed to spend staggering amounts of pounds just for other people, when that money could be better spent on essentials for her baby. No one listened. Her future mother-in-law and her sister chose the venue, the wedding dress, and the guest list for her.
When they sent Emily to try on the chosen dress, she didnt want to go. In her mind, she pictured a gown overloaded with ruffles and sparkling gems. Neither her sister nor Olivers mum was known for their refined taste. When her family heard Emily wasnt keen, they labelled her ungrateful and were furious. But Emily was unfazed; her thoughts were absorbed by finishing sixth-form, taking her exams, and preparing for the arrival of her child.
She turned up at the registry office in a simple white dress that looked lovely and suited her perfectly. And there began the real drama.
The relatives didnt know Emily planned to keep her surname. Oliver knew and didnt mind, but his mother was livid, shouting at the cameras, What do you mean you wont take our name?
Emily smiled and stepped aside. The next day, she would face another round a wedding party in Olivers home village with all his relations. She knew she needed to protect her nerves.
Their marriage lasted just a few years. Oliver proved to be a dismal husband and a rather absent father, spending every weekend on his computer, ignoring his family. When Emilys patience ran out, she packed her bags and left.
Her mother-in-law was less than pleased with how things turned out. But Emily finally breathed easily at last, she felt free and happy. She realised its better to choose your own path and keep your independence than to let others decide your life for you.
