The ceremony took place inside a beautifully restored barn decorated with glowing string lights and elegant floral arrangements. Daniel looked genuinely happy, and when he became emotional while exchanging his vows, I couldn’t help wondering whether he knew what his new wife had done that morning.
I soon realized he had absolutely no idea.
During the reception, Grandma’s magnificent cake stood on a wheeled display cart beneath the warm lights. Its four ivory tiers were decorated with delicate sugar flowers, each one carefully shaped by Grandma’s aching hands.
Ashley was standing beside it, directing the photographer.
“Make sure you get the flowers from this angle. And take another picture from the other side.”
She seemed delighted with the cake now that it was attracting admiration from the guests. Not once did she acknowledge the woman who had spent three days making it.
Across the room, Daniel caught Grandma’s eye and gave her a grateful smile. She returned it, although I noticed how tired she looked.
