I nodded, my heart heavy. “I understand,” I said, and I meant it. Emotions ran high during weddings, and sometimes people acted out of character. But it was clear that this event had exposed rifts that needed to be addressed.

Turning to the guests, many of whom were still gawking at the unfolding drama, I raised my voice. “I apologize for the inconvenience,” I said. “I hope you understand that this was not how I intended the evening to end. For those of you who have traveled far, please know that I will ensure your arrangements are taken care of.”

With that, I left Jason and Amelia to navigate the aftermath of the day. It was their wedding, after all, their story to write from here on out.