The wedding reception began slowly as guests started to settle in and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The waiter skillfully navigated among the guests, balancing a tray of gleaming glasses.
Lily felt overwhelmed by the emotional turmoil of the day and reached out, grabbing one of the glasses quickly, without hesitation. Without thinking twice, she tilted the glass and downed all the liquid at once, as if trying to drown her worries in a quick gulp.
As she savored the taste of champagne on her tongue, a mixture of worry and regret flooded her. She knew she was running away from her problems by seeking refuge in alcohol, but at that moment, it seemed to be the only way to calm the whirlwind of emotions engulfing her.
Samuel appeared at the entrance of the hall, casting quick glances
