My father, Zachary Hoffman, who was usually so busy with work, suddenly didn’t seem busy at all. He sat there, patiently listening to his youngest daughter as she recounted her exciting experiences abroad.
My mother, Nancy Patton, held Nina in her arms, her eyes filled with affection, as she fussed over how much weight the latter had lost and how hard it must have been for her abroad.
Adrian sat beside them, fully focused on shelling pecans for Nina.
I didn’t say a word. I just watched the heartwarming scene quietly. The living room and dining area felt like two separate worlds. One was filled with warmth and laughter, and the other with emptiness.
“Sadie, why are you standing over there instead of joining us? Is it because you’re still mad at me for ruining your wedding?” Nina suddenly said pitifully.
It was only then that the people in the living room noticed me.
Dad frowned instinctively. “Why that long face? Get over here!”
Mom looked annoyed as well. “Your wedding was ruined because you picked a bad date. This has nothing to do with Nina. Don’t you dare get mad at her, or I’ll no longer be your mom!”
Nina pouted and clung to Mom. “Mom, don’t say that. You’ll make Sadie sad.”
Though she sounded like she was defending me, the triumphant look in her eyes was undeniable.
Nina was far from innocent. I had already told her when my wedding would be a week before. She had seen my message and even told me she had a surprise prepared for me.
What a surprise indeed.
This was a game she had been playing since we were kids. Every time, my parents and Adrian never chose me. Not even my fiancé, who was supposed to spend his life with me, ever chose me.
