Chapter 6 - Leaving the Gold Room
Julian turned his back on the altar, the floral arches, and the towering white cake.
He walked down the center aisle, his heavy leather shoes stepping cleanly over the ruined veil.
Lily kept her small arms wrapped tightly around his neck.
As they passed the third row, Lily peeked over her father's shoulder at Vanessa, who was now kneeling amidst the scattered rose petals on the floor.
"Dad?" Lily murmured softly, her cheek pressing into his jacket collar.
"Yes, Lily?"
"Is the lady going to keep the dress?"
Julian didn't slow his pace as he reached the mahogany exit doors.
"No, Lily," he said softly, his voice cutting through the quiet foyer.
"The dress was never hers."
He pushed the heavy doors open with his free hand.
The cool, damp evening air rushed into the warm ballroom, blowing away the heavy scent of lilies and expensive perfume.
Outside, the streetlights were just turning on, casting long silver streaks across the wet asphalt.
Julian walked out onto the wide granite steps, the heavy oak doors closing softly behind them with a final, muted click.
May you like
In his pocket, the broken phone went black.
On the floor of the empty aisle, the single white rose petal slowly dried under the fading light.
