CHAP 5
Chapter 5: The Picture That Never Happened
After the ceremony ended, families crowded onto the lawn for photographs.
David hurried toward Michael with a practiced smile.
"Come on, son. The photographer is waiting."
Michael didn't move.
"I already have someone to take a picture with."
David's smile faltered.
"What does that mean?"
"It means my family picture starts with Mom."
Sarah immediately tried to calm him.
"Michael, your father came—"
"He came today," Michael answered softly.
"You stayed every other day."
Silence settled over the group.
Chloe stepped forward.
"I never meant to upset anyone."
Michael looked at her politely.
"This wasn't your seat to take."
She had no answer.
The professional photographer raised his camera.
"So... family photo?"
Michael nodded.
"Yes."
He slipped one arm around Sarah and the other around Aunt Claire.
"Ready."
May you like
The camera flashed.
Behind them, David remained standing alone, watching the picture he had imagined disappear forever.
