Choosing Money Over Love
Back then, I was convinced I was destined for more. I told myself I “deserved better” than a partner who earned so little. The truth was uglier: I was chasing status.
So I did the cruelest thing.
Antonio cried that day. She clutched my arm, begged me to stay, her voice breaking with every word. But I didn’t waver. I had already decided she wasn’t “enough” for the life I imagined.
A Marriage That Wasn’t a Dream
Five years later, I had climbed to the position of assistant sales manager. I had the polished suits, the corporate title, the business card embossed in gold.
But my personal life? It was a cold, lonely battlefield.
My wife — the CEO’s daughter — constantly belittled me for what she called my “average salary,” even though I worked for her father’s company. I lived under the weight of her expectations and the sharper weight of my father-in-law’s disdain.
One afternoon, a college friend called with casual gossip that would change everything.
The Invitation That Fed My Pride
“Did you hear?” he said. “Antonio’s getting married.”
Before I could process the news, he added, “She’s marrying a construction worker. No money. Honestly, she still can’t choose well.”
I laughed — a hollow, arrogant laugh.
I pictured myself as the embodiment of success — the tailored dress, the luxury car, the confident entrance. I wanted her to regret letting me go.
The Grand Entrance That Fell Flat
The day of the wedding, I put on my most expensive designer dress and stepped into my glossy car. The moment I walked into the reception hall, I could feel eyes turning toward me. My chin lifted. I felt triumphant.
And then… I saw him.
The Groom I Never Expected
The groom stood at the altar in a simple beige suit. No designer label, no ostentation. But his face — his smile — stopped me in my tracks.
I moved closer, my heels clicking on the floor. Then my stomach dropped.
It was Emilio.
