My family skipped my wedding—then demanded $8,400

No one in my family came to my wedding. A few weeks later, my dad texted me, “I need $8,400 for your brother’s wedding.” I sent him $1 with “best wishes.” Then I had my husband change the locks. THEN MY DAD SHOWED UP—WITH THE POLICE.

“I know,” I said, though I didn’t. In the Navy, you learn to expect the worst, but you’re still prepared for the best. I hoped they might change their minds.

He placed his hand on mine. “Family isn’t about who shows up. It’s about who actually shows up.”

I smiled at him, but when he turned away, my eyes filled with tears that I refused to let fall.

The next morning, the sun streamed through the curtains. I sat by the window, still in the silk robe the hotel had given us, and gazed out over the harbor again. It was peaceful—the kind of morning that almost convinces you the pain was just a dream. But then I saw the folded invitation on the table, addressed to Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Carter and their family, untouched. I picked it up, ran my fingers over the embossed letters, folded it again, and tucked it into my uniform. Some reminders must sting. They keep you honest.

Continue reading…