WARNING: This chapter contains content about self-harm that might trigger some readers. Reader's discretion is highly advised.
JENNIFER
The priest's voice echoed through the congregation, "If anyone has a reason why this marriage should not proceed, speak now, or forever hold your peace."
In that moment, my heart thudded against my ribcage, a relentless drumbeat of anxiety and fear. Clutching the hem of my dress, my fingers twisted the fabric in a vice grip. Eyes closed, I tried to summon the courage that seemed to have deserted me.
It was time.
But despite rehearsing the words "I object" repeatedly in my head since morning, as if to remember how to say them when the time came. But now, even if they were the only thing ringing in my head, I couldn't bring myself to say them. Mom
