Vanessa threw her bouquet directly at my chest, white petals exploding across the carpeted steps.
Vanessa: You think you're so smart, David? Your father was weak, and you're just as soft as he was!
David: My father built this company with honest work. Something you and Vance know nothing about.
Two men in dark suits walked briskly down the center aisle from the back of the chapel.
They weren't wedding guests. They flashed gold badges from their jacket pockets as they reached the steps.
Detective Davis: Vanessa Hayes? I'm Detective Davis with the State Financial Crimes Division.
Vanessa took a step back, her heel catching on her lace train as she stumbled against the communion table.
Vanessa: What? What are you doing here? This is a private ceremony!
Detective Davis: We've had a warrant for Richard Vance since yesterday. Mr. Miller's attorney just forwarded us your shared encrypted files.
Vanessa: Vance gave you my name? That coward!
David: He didn't have to give anyone your name, Vanessa. Toby found the flash drive you dropped while threatening him.
Her head snapped toward the back of the room where Clara was holding Toby close.
Vanessa: You ruined everything, you little rat!
Clara: Don't you dare look at my son!
Clara marched down the aisle, her face pale with fury as she stopped right in front of the bride.
Clara: I welcomed you into our home! I let you comfort me when our dad passed away!
Vanessa: Because you were stupid, Clara! You were desperate for a friend, and you handed me the keys to your life insurance payout!
A sharp crack echoed through the cathedral. Clara's hand swung through the air, delivering a stinging slap across Vanessa's cheek.
The room went deadly silent as Vanessa held her reddening cheek, tears of humiliation finally spilling over her mascara.
Clara: That's for my family. Now get out of my brother's sight.
Detective Davis: Ma'am, turn around and place your hands behind your back.
The cold metallic click of handcuffs sounded extraordinarily loud in the high-ceilinged room.
Vanessa's Father: Vanessa... is this true? Did you really commit corporate fraud?
Vanessa: Dad, shut up and call our corporate defense team! Get me out of here!
The detectives escorted her down the aisle, past dozens of shocked family friends who pulled their coats back in disgust.
I looked down at the gold wedding band resting on the velvet pillow near the altar.
I picked it up, walked to the side trash receptacle, and dropped it straight into the garbage.
David: Pastor, I believe this service is concluded.
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