The first page carried two words that made my pulse jump: debt notice. Aaron’s name appeared on every demand. Beneath those pages were property documents bearing Mom’s name, but the signature looked like Aaron’s. I forgot about the missing phone. In my frightened mind, the papers confirmed every accusation I had made at dinner.

I gathered the documents and drove to the venue, gripping the wheel so hard my fingers ached. I did not call Mom or ask Aaron for an explanation. I did not contact a lawyer or read the smaller print. I rushed through the ceremony doors and shouted, “Stop the wedding!” Every guest turned toward me.

Mom stood at the front in her wedding dress, happiness draining from her face. I thrust the papers into her hands and said Aaron had debts and had signed documents involving her property. Aaron’s jaw tightened, but he did not approach me. Mom read several pages, covered her mouth, and finally whispered, “Casey, those debts exist because of you.”

Aaron explained that Mom had told him about my restaurant dream. They had used money set aside for the wedding to purchase a small restaurant for me, but the closing happened sooner than expected. When their funds fell short, Aaron borrowed the difference. He told me to take a seat so the ceremony could continue. I apologized to both of them and stumbled toward the back row, my legs weak beneath the weight of what I had done.

Chapter 4 – Before the Vows — Continue Reading… ↓