For the Ten Years I Wasted

On Vicky's birthday, I gave her the limited edition handbag that she had been longing for.

The next day, she happened to meet Josh while carrying it and took a selfie in the coffee shop, accidentally capturing him in the photo. She took a photo of the three of us watching a movie, but they were holding hands under the armrest.

On the day Josh proposed to me, Vicky updated a long post, expressing her pain and dissatisfaction.

She wrote: [I need an answer tonight. If he loves me, he shouldn't miss this opportunity.]

She did it. That night, Josh kissed her and did not reject her.

They agreed to have a wild trip before their wedding, so Josh told me that he would be on a business trip for a week.

My stomach felt like it was being turned upside down. What overtime work? What social engagements? It turned out that they were all excuses for their dates.

During those seven days, Vicky uploaded countless videos. She said she wanted to cover all of Josh's memories with me and fill his future with her presence.

I went through the posts, tormenting myself. From restaurants to hotels and from cruise ships to mountain trails. Two different people in the same scenery. As I watched, I went from initial heart-wrenching pain to numbness. I eventually felt it all a bit absurd. It turned out even hatred was unnecessary once the heart was dead.

As the sun was about to rise, I made a decision — the wedding had to be cancelled.

I turned on my computer and began drafting an email to inform the guests. With every word I typed, my heart ached a little more. 10 years of love and 20 years of friendship had vanished instantly.

Before I even sent the email, I called Vicky. "Zoe? Why are you calling me at this hour? You're about to become the most beautiful bride. You can't stay up all night!" Her voice was light and natural.

I opened my mouth, but no sound came out.

Sensing something was off with me, she immediately asked with concern, "Zoe? Are you okay? Are you too nervous to sleep? Where's Josh? Why isn't he keeping you company? Is he busy with work that he didn't answer your calls again? I'm so fed up with him! If it weren't for the fact that you're getting married tomorrow, I'd call him right now and give him a piece of my mind!"

How ironic. She published that resolute post just a short while ago, and yet now she could comfort me so calmly.

I finally managed to squeeze out. "No...Nothing. I'm just a little nervous and suddenly wanted to hear your voice."

"Silly girl." She laughed helplessly. "Don't worry. Everything will be perfect tomorrow, I promise. Now, all you have to do is sleep well. I'll take care of everything else."

Suddenly, a deep gasp came from the other end of the line. It was Josh's voice.

I fought back my tears. "Vicky, are you hiding something from me?"

There was a moment of silence on the other end, followed by a flustered attempt to cover up. "What are you saying? Zoe, what's wrong?"

I replied, "Put your phone on speaker."

Vicky hesitated slightly, but still did as I said.

My voice was clear and firm. "Vicky, Josh, I've decided to cancel the wedding. I wish you both a happily ever after."