I climbed the stairs slowly, losing my will to live with each step. My legs felt like they might give out beneath me, but I kept going. This was it. No turning back now. I reached the top and stepped into the open space, my eyes scanning the area. It was quiet, the soft chirping of the birds from the garden blew across the room. But the air felt heavy, like the whole place was holding its breath.

I was looking for him. The man I was supposed to marry. Replaying the image I've created of him in ...