The Ugly Bride
the priest declared, marking the culmination of the ceremony.
As applause erupted from their families, a wave of joy reverberated through the church. All eyes were on Mason, anticipating the customary kiss. However, he stood frozen, wrestling with his inner turmoil. Desperate to avoid this final act, he reluctantly pressed a peck on Isabel's cheek, eliciting a radiant smile from her.
Descending from the altar, they approached their families, who showered them with blessings. For Mason, the charade had become unbearable. Excusing himself, he slipped outside the church, seeking solace in the cold embrace of a cigarette.