Susan went on.
“I recognized Monica when I heard her full name. Years ago, she took a beginner acting workshop I taught. She spoke often about reinvention. About telling a better story. About leaving behind a past that did not fit the life she wanted to display.”
Monica went pale.
Susan’s voice stayed calm.
“At the time, I didn’t know the details. I just remembered the way she talked about people as if they were props she had outgrown.”
Monica found her voice then.
But before anyone else could speak, Liam stood up.
“This is insane.”
Susan did not look rattled.
“No. Insane is inviting the son you abandoned to your wedding because his absence might make you look bad.”
A murmur moved through the room.
Monica looked at her fiancé.
“She’s lying.”
