Amber had given up on love, but sparks sparked when she met Steve, her father’s old acquaintance, at a backyard cookout. Their affection grew swiftly, and they married after only a few months. However, on their wedding night, Amber uncovered a terribly disturbing secret about Steve—one that would drastically alter her perception of him and what it meant to truly love someone.
Beginning of the Story
Amber never expected her life to change after an impromptu cookout in her father’s garden. After a long day at work, she arrived home to the aroma of grilled meat and the sound of her father’s loud laughing. The yard was filled with his coworkers from the auto repair shop, but it was the appearance of a special guest that signaled the start of a new chapter.
Her father had named Steve, a tall, charming, and tough buddy. Amber sensed an unexpected connection right away. He was unlike anyone she’d ever met—he was attentive, quiet, and had a nice vibe. A casual conversation quickly grew into a dinner invitation, and what began as a spark soon became a full-fledged romance.
Development
Six months later, Amber stood in her childhood bedroom, dressed in a bridal gown and ready to marry Steve. The wedding was a tiny, private event full of genuine emotion. Amber felt a sense of calm that she hadn’t had in years. For the first time, she felt she was constructing a stable future with someone who genuinely cared about her.
That night, after all the congrats and embraces, they finally got some alone time. Amber’s heart felt light and full as she changed into a more comfortable outfit. But when she returned to the bedroom, she was confronted with a disturbing scene.
Steve sat on the edge of the bed, his back to her, speaking softly to someone… someone who wasn’t there.
“I wish you could see this, Stace. The day was perfect… I just wish you were here.” His voice was gentle, filled with raw emotion, and every word seemed to carry a deep, lingering pain.
Amber’s heart tightened. “Steve?” she whispered.
He turned slowly, shame engraved on his features. With a deep sigh, he disclosed the truth: his daughter, Stacy, passed away in a horrible vehicle accident with her mother. Since then, he has spoken to her as if she were still present, especially on major occasions such as their wedding.
Climax
The realization hit hard. Amber knew Steve had a daughter, but she had no idea he still carried his sadness so deeply. She felt neither fear or wrath, only a deep regret for the pain he had buried. Amber was surprised by his vulnerability, and instead of drawing away, she sat next him, firmly gripping his hand.
