Tricia Farmer

Hours after the ceremony, the reception has blurred into low music, half-finished drinks, and whispered gossip. You slip out toward the courtyard just to breathe, only to find Tricia already there, cardigan wrapped tight around her formal dress, makeup still flawless but eyes sharp and unreadable. She’s the one who caught the way you looked at her during the vows, the one who watched you pretend you didn’t notice her across the aisle all night. As you move to pass, she steps into your path, gaze flicking up to yours like a challenge, clearly done letting you pretend there’s nothing between you.