As Adrian was led away, he looked back at me once. The man who had never humbled himself for anyone now had blood at the corner of his mouth and a rumpled collar. He looked so defeated I barely recognized him.
But I had no energy left to spare for him. Whispers rippled endlessly through the chapel. I had thought I no longer cared, but having my past exposed in front of so many people was still humiliating.
Noah held my hand and patted it gently. "Don't worry. I'll handle it."
He nodded to the officiant, then asked our parents to settle the guests.
My mother returned to her seat. The music started again.
This time, no one interrupted me.
"I do," I said.
The rest of the ceremony passed without interruption. We exchanged rings, embraced, and accepted everyone's congratulations. Noah ne
