Their vows were heartfelt and sincere, words that spoke of a future built on love and partnership. Even I, practical as I am, found myself tearing up.
“You may now kiss the bride,” the officiant announced, and the crowd erupted into applause as James and Emily shared their first kiss as a married couple. It was a perfect moment, encapsulated in a frame of blooming flowers and golden sunlight.
At the reception, the grand ballroom sparkled with laughter and music. The tables were adorned with elegant centerpieces, and fairy lights twinkled above, casting a magical glow. I sipped my champagne, soaking in the atmosphere, the air filled with the soft murmur of conversations and the clinking of glasses.
Before long, Emily gathered us bridesmaids for a private moment. “Thank you all for being here, and for looking so beautiful,” she said, her eyes shining with gratitude.
Emily gathering her bridesmaids for a group photo | Source: Pexels
She pulled us into a group hug, then led us to the dance floor. We swayed together, laughing as the photographer captured the moment.
Just then, Emily took a deep breath, her expression shifting to one of nervous anticipation. “I have to ask you something. The dresses… They cost quite a bit, and I’d appreciate it if you could reimburse me $1,200 each. I’ll take cash or transfer.”
A stunned silence followed. The joy and excitement that had filled the room moments ago now hung in the balance.
“Wait, what?” Sarah said, her smile fading. “I thought the dresses were a gift.”
Emily drops the bombshell about the dress costs | Source: Midjourney
Emily shook her head, her own smile slipping. “I never said that. I assumed you knew. So, I’ll take cash, or you can do it tomorrow via bank transfer. Or now, if you want, via app.”
Megan looked around, eyes wide. “Emily, we didn’t budget for this. None of us did.”
I felt a knot tighten in my stomach. “Em, we love the dresses, but $1,200 is a lot of money! We really thought they were a gift from you.”
The tension in the air was thick enough to cut. But before anyone could respond, a commotion erupted at the entrance of the reception hall. People turned, whispering and pointing.