The chill of the church seemed to seep into my bones as I walked slowly down the aisle, each step measured and deliberate. I could feel the eyes of the congregation following me, whispers beginning to ripple through the crowd. The officiant paused, a look of confusion crossing his face as he watched my approach. My in-laws, standing at the altar with their serene smiles, began to realize that something was amiss.
I stopped halfway down the aisle, my heart pounding in my chest, but my resolve unshaken. My father’s lawyer had told me everything, preparing me for this moment of truth. I took a deep breath and glanced over at my husband, who looked as though he’d just swallowed something bitter.
“This house, this life you’ve built on someone else’s foundation—it’s over,” I said, my voice steady and unwavering. “You’ve been living a lie, and it’s time everyone knows.”
