My stepmother smashed my late mother’s precious crystal set to pieces – she had no idea she had been tricked.

I clenched my fists under the table, but kept a sad, defeated expression.

« You’re probably right. »

Sandra’s smile widened. She thought she’d won. She thought she’d destroyed my mind along with those crystals.

Let her think this. Let her savor her victory peacefully.

There were only three days left until the wedding.

My wedding day dawned bright and clear. The Scotsville venue looked like a fairytale. White flowers adorned every corner. Soft music wafted through the air. Everything was perfect.

Sandra strutted in her designer dress as if the place belonged to her. She took a front-row seat. She made sure everyone knew she was the stepmother… the new woman in Dad’s life.

During the reception, I stood up with the microphone.