6
Theo arrives quickly.
Once in the car, I notice a pillow on the passenger seat.
I move it aside and find an opened box of condoms.
Hesitating, I choose to sit in the back seat.
Theo’s eyes remain glued to his phone, oblivious to my discomfort.
He casually asks, “Why the beach? Is everything for the wedding done?”
“Almost.”
“I remember you always wanted to go to the beach. When I have time, I’ll take you for a proper trip. I didn’t mean to interrupt today, but my mom wanted to see you.”
In Theo’s eyes, the wedding is solely my responsibility.
He only thinks of me when he needs me.
I don’t respond; my eyes sting from the wind.
At the old house, only leftovers remain.
Dad is chatting with Aunt Hazel.
Aunt Hazel warmly takes my hand.
“Nora, I really like you. You’re sensible and well–behaved.”
As she says this, her eyes flicker to Lydia.
“Though with Theo’s conditions, he could find someone better. But I advised him to cherish what he has.”
“But you’re not young anymore. After the wedding, maybe stop working, have a child soon, and focus on taking care of Theo.”
I respond perfunctorily. When I look up, Theo is already by Lydia’s side.
30:25 AM
<
He brings bridal and bridesmaid dresses for us to try on.
“Knowing you’re busy I let Lydia choose. She has better taste than you.”
The old yellowed dress even has a tear.
Meanwhile, Lydia, in a white dress, locks more like the bride.
Theo seems amicus.
It must be a store mistake, nothing to do with Lydia.”
“It’s too late to change. I’ll figure something out tomorrow”
“It’s fine.”
I calmly want to change out of the bridal dress.
But Lydie suggests taking a big group photo.
She squeezes me to the side, standing next to Theo.
As the shutter clicks, she nudges me.
The final photo is so blurry, I can’t be recognized.
Theo suggests retaking it.
I smile, “Maybe another time. It’s late.”
The wish for a group photo has already been crossed off my list.
Lydia, with teary eyes, apologizes to me.
“Sis, don’t be mad at Theo. I’ll scour the city tonight to find you a dress you’ll like.”
With that, she runs out crying.
Theo glares at me and chases after her.
I feel bored and leave with the tattered dress.
Anyway, tomorrow, everything will be over.
