Golden leaves carpeted Westbrook that autumn, and the air was crisp and clear. Ethan and I held our engagement party in the rooftop ballroom of an upscale hotel downtown.
There were no armed guards like the ones who had filled my last wedding, only colleagues, friends, and people who sincerely wished us well.
Wearing a champagne-colored, off-the-shoulder gown, I walked slowly to the altar on Ethan's arm as our guests applauded.
Ethan looked into my eyes, his own filled with tenderness. "I'm grateful Sara came into my life. She taught me that love isn't about possession or control. It's about respecting her choices and protecting her freedom."
Thunderous applause rose from the guests. My eyes grew warm as I leaned into Ethan's embrace.
Halfway through the celebration, a murmur ran thro
