The Substitute Bride's Twins
"Big sister, I guess you're not happy to see me."
Those were the first words my younger sister Elora said when she showed up at my door. She had been gone for two years. She was the one my husband Nathaniel was supposed to marry. But she ran away on our wedding day after I caught her in bed with my supposed husband, and I was locked in a dressing room and forced to take her place.
For two years, I have been invisible. I cook his meals and attend his business dinners. I sleep alone while he turns his back to me. He has never once looked at me the way he looks at her picture.
Now Elora is back. And she wants to reclaim the life she threw away, my house, my husband, my name.
My parents, who never loved me, rushed to welcome her home. My husband, who never chose me, melts the moment he sees her face. And I am left standing in the doorway, holding the door open like a servant.
I was ready to leave. I had divorce papers waiting. But then I found out I am pregnant. With twins. And the man who never wanted me doesn't even know.
So I will disappear. I will build something of my own. I will become someone they never expected.
And one day, when I return, they will finally see me.
But by then, it will be too late.