The past story

*****

"I was not aware of it," Richard said to his grandma, glancing at Ana. He would not mind if she showed her distaste or rage, but what was worse than anything was the stillness she was exhibiting. As Richard remained in this stillness longer, he could feel a sharp knife repeatedly piercing his heart.

"Your mom and the family came second," his grandmother's voice quivered with anger, "but it was you who didn't stand with her when the marriage took place. It was supposed to be a bride and groom. She was just a little girl back then."

Richard's grandmother grappled with her fury, the realization hitting her like a tidal wave after years of being kept in the dark. She had been misled, believing the false narrative that the girl had run away with her lover, tarnishing their family's reputation. That's why she never sought out Ana again.

"That no longer matters how young I was or what I've been through; what I want now is divorce. I'll be more than pleased," Ana expressed her thoughts e