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She sounded so betrayed that when lass splintering

Apprehensive, I stepped forward “Mina…”

The way I said it, with careful consideration and caution, had her eyes widening in shock The breath she was holding was audibly exhaled, and then she said quietly, “Oh my God, you are”

At the misery she wore, my heart picked up pace, and the words I spoke caetic “We didn’t plan this”

Lost in her thoughts, she nodded slowly, unconsciously, looking past me into the wall by my head

I didn’t knohat to say as I watched the flurry of expressions sweep over her sweet face

Sadness Anger Distress And finally, anguish

Mina lowered her face, her shoulders shaking as she started crying, and ut sank Lev came forward and placed a hand on his wife’s shoulder She let out a wobbly, “It’s fine I’m okay I’m happy” She repeated herself, but if came out dismal “I’m happy”

Her small body shook with silent sobs, and the entire roorief unfold Ait open as she escaped the scrutiny of watchful eyes I ht me

“Let ently squeezed h his words didn’t sound very apologetic, I knehat he said taxed hiht squeeze He then followed his wife out the door

My gaze swept the rooht to abandon ship and sneak back upstairs, so my attention

“A toast” Uncle Laredo raised his glass “To the happy couple”

A h the space, and one by one, everyone lifted their glass in salute

I s apple juice in thanks, but I couldn’t stop thinking about Mina

I should have told her in private I should have offered her soht about how this would affect her But I didn’t

Guilt ate at me

I’d be lying if I said I didn’t expect a reaction I suppose I just hoped for ot

My gut sank