Everyone in my family was invited to my cousin Debra’s wedding—except me. I thought it must’ve been a simple mistake. After all, we were once as close as sisters. I decided to go anyway, not knowing I was about to uncover a truth that would change everything.
As I stood in front of my mirror in the lilac dress I’d bought with months of babysitting money, I felt beautiful and excited. My hair was curled perfectly, my makeup just right. I was genuinely happy for Debra and wanted to be part of her special day.
“Kylie, are you ready?” my mom called from downstairs.
“Almost!” I replied with a smile, giving my curls one final spray of hairspray.
Debra wasn’t just a cousin—she was my childhood best friend, the person I shared secrets and endless games with. I couldn’t imagine not being at her wedding. So, I never questioned it. I simply showed up.
The venue was magical. Fairy lights twinkled around an elegant barn filled with music, laughter, and the scent of roses. I spotted my brother Ryan, waved at him, and started to feel at ease. Everything felt normal—until it wasn’t.
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