During my sister’s wedding, my 7-year-old son grabbed my hand and whispered, «Mom, we need to leave, now…

My 7-year-old son told me to run away at my sister’s wedding…

The suburban neighborhood of Chicago was wrapped in autumn twilight. Caroline Foster picked up the mail from her doorstep as she returned home from the hospital. Among the letters, an invitation printed on expensive paper caught her eye.

It was from her sister Vanessa, the younger one of the two. Caroline had often been compared to her sister. This had been happening since childhood.

Caroline was serious and responsible, raised to meet her parents’ expectations. On the other hand, Vanessa, five years younger, was bright, active, and full of confidence. Their parents often told Caroline, you should learn from Vanessa.

I’m home, Caroline called out, and seven-year-old Aidan came running from the hallway. Mom! Today I drew a dinosaur at school. The teacher said mine was the best.

Caroline smiled as she stroked her son’s head. That’s wonderful. Will you show me? From the kitchen, she could see ten-year-old Emma doing her homework, and her husband Jason had just returned from work, loosening his tie while making coffee.

A perfect family portrait was right before her eyes. Caroline was proud of the home she had built during 15 years of marriage. Any interesting mail? Jason asked.

Caroline picked up the invitation. It’s from Vanessa. Probably.

She opened the envelope and was momentarily speechless. She’s engaged. To Richard Grant.

The developer. Jason asked, looking somewhat surprised. He’s a big shot in the industry, isn’t he? Caroline nodded.

Richard Grant was a successful real estate developer, well known in local business circles. She continued reading the invitation. The wedding is in three months.

It looks like our whole family is invited. That night, after the children were in bed, Caroline was looking at the invitation in their bedroom. Vanessa always seemed to be one step ahead.

Graduating top of her class from law school, working at a prestigious law firm. Marrying a successful businessman. Jason came out of the shower and noticed her expression.

What are you thinking about? Just. Vanessa. Everything always works out for her.

Caroline, Jason sat beside her. You have a wonderful life. A good job, lovely children, and me, he winked at her.

Caroline smiled. I know. But? But what? Nothing, she said.

I’m just tired. The next morning, Caroline called Vanessa. Congratulations on your engagement.

Thank you. Vanessa’s voice was filled with excitement. I can’t believe it.

He’s perfect. You’ll help with the wedding preparations, right? We’re sisters after all. Caroline smiled.

Of course. Just tell me what you need. Wonderful…