Chapter 2: The Reception
With the exception of the bride being replaced by Sara, everything else continued to be the same. As Sara vowed to stand by her husband's side forever, the guests couldn't help but feel sympathy for Nora. The man she had been about to marry today was now marrying her own sister. However, beneath the composed facade, Nora carried a hidden secret, shielding her true emotions.
Ignoring the sympathetic glances coming her way, Nora continued to stare straight ahead. When the priest asked if anyone objected to the marriage, the church remained silent, and the wedding vows proceeded. Nora's heart ached, but she masked her pain with determination. Everyone assumed that she had only just learnt of the betrayal. But the truth was...
Isabella, sensing Nora's turmoil, held her hand in sympathy. She wanted to express her anger towards Sara and Antonio but was held back by her loyalty to her friend. As Nora gently squeezed Isabella's hand, she looked at her with concern, uncertain of Nora's intentions. However, Nora offered a small, enigmatic smile and winked at Isabella, leaving her bewildered and wide-eyed.
Staring at her friend in astonishment, Isabella wondered if Nora had lost her mind due to the shock. Why would she give such a mysterious gesture at a moment like this? Urgently, Isabella tugged at her friend's hand, seeking an explanation. In response, Nora leaned closer and whispered softly, "There will be a show later. Don't worry."
***
The wedding reception hall buzzed with chatter and laughter, the sounds of celebration filling the air. As Sara posed for the wedding portraits, everyone soon forgot about the big change in the event. To most people, this wedding would be relegated to gossip, scandal and entertainment.
Nora smiled sardonically as she eyed the people who claimed to be her family. After the initial pitiful glance, everyone ignored her and was making merry. Not that she had an objection to that. She had already changed out of her wedding gown to a simple sheath dress and was counting down the minutes until she could leave without being subjected to even more pity. At least with her presence here, these people would not have much to gossip about.
As she sat wondering if she should eat some of the delicious food or continue her pretence as the heartbroken jilted bride, an older gentleman approached her and sat next to her.
"Grandpa William. Why are you not dancing?"
The older man grinned and shook his head," Silly child. If I try to dance at my age, they will have to carry me out of here on the stretcher! It is a wonder if I can walk all the way from there to here. Now if it were thirty years ago, when I was still a young man, all these people would have been left behind in the dust. Now, let's talk about your marriage registration..."