I thought my wedding was beautiful until my mom disappeared. She entered moments later, unkempt and enraged, pointing a shaking finger. We were shocked to find she was kept in a closet by a loved one for unknown reasons.
My family was excited about my wedding to Fabian, my longtime boyfriend. Adele, my mother, was on cloud nine. Though I was close to both my parents, Mom and I had a special bond. She awaited this day for years.
We planned every aspect for hours. Cake tasting was a sugary delight, choosing our clothing was a fashion display, and choosing the Father-Daughter dance tune made us cry.
“Oh, Bella,” Mom exclaimed, wiping her eyes as I tried on the bridal dress. I’m shocked my daughter is getting married.
Hugged her tightly. “I’ll always be your little girl, Mom.”
Everything went well on the big day. Dad grasped my arm as I stood at the back of the church, heart thumping.
Ready, sweetheart? asked, his voice full of love.
I nodded, too choked to speak. We started walking down the aisle when the doors opened. Fabian, his smile blinding, caught my eye. My stomach plummeted as we approached the altar. Something was badly wrong.
Panic rose as I examined the sea of faces. Mom was absent.
“Where’s Mom?” I pleaded with Dad.
He looked around with a frown. “I… No idea. It seemed she was here.”
I froze, the music halting. All eyes were on me.
“We can’t start,” I shakily murmured. “Mother’s missing.”
Fabian ran to me, worried. “Bella, what’s wrong?”
“My Mom,” I gasped. “She’s gone. We must find her.”
I looked at my front-row brethren. “Can you find her? Please?”
They agreed, rising up and leaving the chapel. Fabián gripped my hand. I know she’s OK. Probably got stuck somewhere.”
But as the minutes passed, I felt dread. Mom wasn’t like this. She wouldn’t miss my wedding for anything.
Guests shifted uncomfortably, whispering. My bridal dress swished as I paced.
I wrung my hands and muttered, “Maybe we should call the police.”
My arm was wrapped by Fabian. Please give your father and brothers more time. I know they’ll find her.”
As an hour passed, I felt uncertain. Quiet conversations and anxious looks filled the church.
“I can’t believe this is happening,” I told Fabian. Suppose something awful happened to her.
Pulling me close. Try not to think that. I promise we’ll find her.”
Church doors burst open as I prepared to contact the police. Mom stumbled in, then Dad and brothers. Her silky hair, makeup, and golden outfit were ruined.
“Mom!” I wept and ran to her. What happened? Where were you?
She saw someone in the front row before she could respond. Her face twisted in anger.
“YOU!” she shouted, wagging her finger.
I looked over and saw my soon-to-be mother-in-law, Grace, cowering in her seat.
Mom, what’s up? My heart pounded as I asked.
She spun to face me, eyes burning. “Your mother-in-law locked me in the closet! Can you believe it? Because I wore a costly gold dress.”
Surprised gasps and furious muttering filled the congregation. It felt like a strange dream.
“What? That’s crazy,” I muttered, looking at Mom and Grace.
Pale Grace leapt to her feet. This is absurd! Never would—
Oh, preserve it! Mom snapped, rolling her eyes. I heard you telling your sister you had to be the only gold one! Your jealousy isn’t new, but you’ve never done anything so bad because of it.
Fabian advanced, clinched jaw. Mom, is this true? Did you lock Mrs. Jacobs in the closet?
Grace lost her cool. She clutched her hands and shakily spoke. “I thought she was trying to outshine me!”
Fabian’s fury marred his features. Mom, this is Bella’s wedding, not yours! How could you be so mean? You must depart. Now.”
“But…” Grace gasped, “Just a small mistake! I hated seeing her get all the attention in that dress.”
“No buts,” Fabian raged. “You’ve ruined enough today. Leave.”
Grace frowned. “Fine! You’ll regret!” She grabbed her purse and left, leaving a startled stillness.
Nobody moved for a second. Dad swallowed. “All right, everyone. Get back to celebrating this great couple!”
Slowly, tension eased. Fabian looked at me with regret. Bella, I’m sorry. Who knew my mother would do something so awful?”
Squeezing his hand. It’s not your fault. Just focus on us, please.”
A tiny smile returned as he nodded. “I love you.”
“I love you too,” I said.
While retaking our altar seats, I caught Mom’s glance. I was relieved when she nodded. We would survive.
The ceremony resumed, and Fabian and I exchanged vows with joy despite the incident. The church cheered as the priest married us.
I drew close to Fabian as we reentered the aisle as husband and wife. “Well, that wasn’t how I imagined our wedding.”
He laughed softly. No, me neither. At least it’ll be a memorable wedding, right?
It made me laugh. “That’s one perspective.”
The commotion was forgotten as people danced and joked during the reception. Finally, I could breathe near the punch bowl.
“Some wedding, huh?” asked a voice beside me. I turned to see Aunt Wima shaking her head. I can’t believe Grace did that. What a mother-in-law nightmare.”
“I know,” I sighed. «It’s still hard to process»
Another guest spoke. “I’m glad Fabian resisted her. Shows his character.”
I smiled at Fabian across the room. He winked at me, making my heart race.
“Speaking of nightmares,” Aunt Wilma said, “where is your Mom? Poor thing must be traumatized.”
I checked the room, remembering I hadn’t seen her lately. “I should check on her.”
Mom was alone on a garden bench watching the stars. A sorrowful smile appeared on her face as I approached.
“Hey, sweetheart,” she whispered.
I sat with her and took her hand. Mom, I’m sorry you went through that.”
She pinched my fingers. “No problem, sweetheart. Your happiness and marriage to a great man are very important.”
My eyes watered. “But it’s wrong. This was intended to be flawless, but…
“Hey,” Mom turned to me. “Life isn’t perfect, Bella. However, how we treat defects matters. And you? You handled today well.”
I felt like a child again, resting my head on her shoulder. “I love you, Mom.”
“I love you too, sweetie,” she whispered, kissing my head.
She spoke after a period of serene silence. “Enough moaning. Your wedding day! Let’s dance.”
Back inside, the celebration was on. Fabian pulled me close on the dance floor.
“Everything okay?” he inquired, worried.
I smiled at him and nodded. “Better than okay. I was contemplating my luck.”
He frowned. “Lucky? After today’s events?”
“Absolutely,” I replied. “I’m married to you at the end. Nothing else matters.”
Fabian softened, his eyes sparkling with love. “Bella, I’ll always protect and support you. No matter.”
My hand touched his cheek. “I know. That’s why I love you.”
As we moved to the music, I saw Mom and Dad dancing. I was overwhelmed by appreciation when Mom winked. Despite everything, we were together.
The night concluded with laughter, dancing, and relief that the worst was over.
I was excited as Fabian and I said farewell and started our new life together. We would tackle any challenges with the love of our family and friends.