A dive in the sea of love

i cannot

The chapel doors swung open with a dramatic creak, and Anna stepped into the hallowed space. Her long wedding dress trailed behind her, the delicate lace brushing against the stone floor. All eyes were on her—the guests, the family, and even the flickering candles seemed to lean in, eager to witness this moment.

Anna’s heart raced as she walked toward the front, where the priest stood waiting. Ryan, her once-beloved, stood there too, his eyes wide with surprise. She had thought this day would be filled with joy, but now doubt gnawed at her insides.

The priest began the wedding praise, his voice echoing off the ancient walls. Anna listened, her gaze fixed on Ryan. Memories flooded her mind—their laughter, their whispered promises, the way he held her during the darkest nights. But last night had shattered it all.

She remembered the betrayal—the hushed phone calls, the secret meetings. Anna had seen it with her own eyes—the way Ryan leaned in to kiss another woman, their lips brushing in the moonlight. The pain was fresh, raw, and it threatened to consume her.

The priest turned to Ryan. “Mr. Ryan Orleans,” he intoned, “do you take Miss Anna Dumas as your wife?”

Ryan hesitated, his eyes darting between Anna and the crucifix above the altar. “Yes,” he said finally, his voice strained. “I do.”

Anna’s breath caught. The guests leaned forward, their whispers like a distant hum. The priest then turned to her, and Anna’s heart clenched.

“Miss Anna Dumas,” the priest said, “do you take Mr. Ryan Orleans as your husband?”

Anna’s mind raced. She thought of the vows they had written together—the promises of forever, of unwavering love. But now, standing here, she couldn’t ignore the truth. The betrayal hung heavy in the air, suffocating her.

She met Ryan’s gaze, and her voice trembled. “No,” she said, her words echoing through the chapel. “I cannot.”

Gasps rippled through the crowd. Ryan’s face paled, and Anna felt a mix of relief and sorrow. She had chosen herself—the pain of betrayal over the illusion of love. The chapel seemed to hold its breath, waiting for the fallout.

Ryan’s eyes pleaded with her, but Anna turned away.