…Paul, my former college roommate. Paul was the kind of guy who always had a smile on his face, even when things were tough. He had been studying civil engineering back then and was known for his strong work ethic and integrity. Unlike me, Paul came from a modest background, and although he wasn’t financially privileged, he was rich in kindness and humility.
Seeing him there, standing next to Lily, looking genuinely content, shattered something inside me. A flood of memories came rushing back—late-night study sessions, discussions about our futures, and Paul’s unwavering optimism. He had once told me, “The measure of a man isn’t in his wealth, but in his ability to be happy with what he has.” At that moment, I understood the true depth of those words.
As Lily and Paul exchanged vows, I felt a pang of regret that gnawed at my insides. There was a palpable warmth between them, a connection that transcended material wealth and status. The simplicity of their ceremony was a stark contrast to my own extravagant but cold wedding. Here, there were no superficial pretenses, just genuine love and joy.
