"Trishelle? Their relationship has gone even further," I thought to myself.
James nodded and stood up without another word.
"Hey, you need to carry the bride out!" the wedding videographer shouted at him.
James looked puzzled and turned to Emily.
I couldn't help but think, "What? Does he need her permission to do anything?"
Emily softly responded, "It's just superstition. It doesn't matter."
I said nothing and got ready to stand up.
Emily made a show of reaching out to help me, but I sidestepped her and stood alone, staring at her. "Ms. Cline, in what capacity are you making decisions for us as a couple?"
Emily's eyes immediately filled with tears as she replied, "I just wanted to help since you don't have any uncles or brothers around."
James stepped forward and shielded Emily, saying, "It's my fault for forgetting the traditions. Come on, honey, let me carry you out."
Pushing him aside, I laughed bitterly. "No need. I can walk out on my own. I don't need you to carry me."
James' family home had been sold to pay for his father's medical bills, and after his father passed away, his mother moved back to her hometown.
Trishelle had never liked me, thinking I was spoiled and unworthy of her son.