The morning after the disastrous wedding, Derek sat alone in his apartment, surrounded by the remnants of what was supposed to be the happiest day of his life. His tuxedo jacket was draped over a chair, and his tie lay crumpled on the floor. The silence was suffocating, and his thoughts were a whirlwind of regret and shame. He had lost everything in a single moment of truth.
A knock on the door broke the silence. Derek hesitated, knowing who it was. He opened the door to find Michael, standing there with a grim expression.
"Can I come in?" Michael asked, his tone devoid of warmth.
Derek nodded and stepped aside. Michael entered, glancing around the disheveled room before turning his gaze to Derek.
"Sit down," Michael said, his voice firm.
Derek obeyed, sinking into the couch. Michael
