Two Weddings on the Same Day

"Hello, Ms. Shelby. I am Mark's wife. I've been studying abroad for the past three years, and now I'm back!"

Sharon Lindsey reached out with her hand toward me.

Though her words seemed friendly, they were full of subtle claims to ownership.

I had been nothing more than a temporary replacement for Sharon during those three years. Sharon was back, and I could be discarded then.

"Ms. Shelby, are you planning on leaving? If so, that would be perfect because I was considering moving in tonight."

Sharon pretended not to notice when she accidentally bumped into my suitcase.

A pile of photos and small trinkets spilled out of the suitcase.

Sharon picked up a small plain ring and turned to Mark.

"Isn't this the ring you made for me, Mark? I thought it was too simple, so you made me another one."

She smiled as she spoke.

She wore a gold ring on her right hand, which was much more intricate than mine.

That ring had been given to me by Mark on our first anniversary. I had kept it carefully, never wanting to wear it, and had placed it on my vanity. I finally realized it was simply something no one else wanted.

I felt as if I was publicly humiliated while Sharon laughed and taunted me.

Mark did not say a word throughout the whole exchange. His gaze was filled with affection and tenderness that I had never received.

"Enough! I'm leaving."

I shouted in anger; my voice trembled from the humiliation.

I quickly packed my things and placed the key to the house on the table, turning to leave.

"Why don't you come with me to buy some clothes? After all, I like your favorite style."

Sharon blocked my path, her eyes filled with jealousy as she looked at my clothes.

I wore a coat; it was a couple's set Mark and I had bought together, but he did not wear his that day.

"Sorry, I'm leaving."

Sharon grabbed my arm and refused to let me go. She held onto my suitcase, looking at me with a pitiful expression.

"I don't have any friends. That's why I want you to stay with me.

"Don't be angry. I was only joking with you. I'm sorry!"

Suddenly, she let go, and my suitcase rolled over her feet.

"You're too much, Claire!"

Mark stormed over and shoved me aside before he scooped Sharon up, placing her on the sofa and tending to the bruise on her foot.

I stumbled backward, slamming into the door. The pain made me tear up.