The wedding planner arrived mid-morning. Professional woman. Expensive suit. Tablet in hand. Samples in her bag. Ready to discuss a vow renewal for a couple who supposedly loved each other. Supposedly chose each other. Supposedly wanted to recommit publicly.

All lies. Beautiful, strategic lies.

Emma sat across from her at the dining table. Daniel beside her. Too close. Hand on her knee. Possessive. Claiming. Mine.

The planner smiled—a paid, practiced smile. One that said ...