I had always considered weddings to be a mix of glitter and torture. The happy couple gets their perfect day, and everyone else is left desperately trying to act like their life was just as perfect.

Today, apparently, it was my turn to star in that miserable supporting role.

The invitation had come a week ago: the board member's wedding. "Plus one," it read, a cruel little phrase that immediately gave me palpitations.

Plus one? Who was I supposed to bring? Lucas was out of the picture, ...