I walked out knowing exactly how to deal with Jack’s plan.

The church was full on the wedding day.

When the doors opened, everyone turned to look at me.

At the altar, Jack took my hands.

“You look incredible,” he whispered.

I smiled. He looked confident—and that was exactly what I needed.

The officiant began. “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today—”

“Wait, please.” I turned to my maid of honor.

She handed me the envelope. I opened it and pulled out the document.

Jack’s face drained of color.

“You don’t love me. You owe your ex-wife money, and you thought marrying me would solve that,” I said.

A gasp echoed through the room.

Jack shook his head. “That’s fake. Where did you get that?”

I looked toward the back. “Laura?”

Heads turned.

Laura stood.

Shock rippled through the guests.

“I saw you with her the day you asked for more time,” I said. “I followed her. She told me everything.”

“It’s not—” he turned on Laura. “You ruined everything.”

She walked forward. “I told you to get a job, Jack. You thought this would be easier.”

I slipped the ring off and placed it in his pocket.

Then I faced the room. “This wedding is off.”

I stepped down and picked up Diana.

“Mom? Was that the plan?”

I exhaled softly. “Yes, baby. But everything is okay now.”

And it was—because the only person who truly mattered was safe in my arms.

Maybe I would find love again.

But next time, I wouldn’t be so easily charmed—or deceived.