The morning light streamed through the stained glass as I admired my white gown. “I can’t believe it’s finally happening. I’m actually getting married!” I told Lia, my best friend, who adjusted my veil. Despite my leg defect, I was determined not to let it affect my joy.

Kevin and I had met at a support group for disabled individuals, and our connection was immediate. As my father pushed my wheelchair down the aisle, I felt overwhelming happiness seeing Kevin at the altar. Dad whispered, “You look beautiful, princess. I’m sorry I wasn’t always there.”

But the ceremony took a shocking turn when my father interrupted, accusing Kevin of fraud. In a cruel twist, he splashed cold water on Kevin, revealing that Kevin could walk. Kevin—no, Johnson—was arrested for faking his disability and deceiving me.

Later, my father explained, “I saw him walking this morning. He’s done this before, preying on vulnerable women. I couldn’t let you marry him.” Betrayed, I turned to my art and friends for solace, healing through the love and support of those who had always been there.

Though my wedding ended in heartbreak, I found strength in rediscovering myself and the bonds with my family.