My father yelled that the wedding was off as soon as the chapel doors flew open, just moments before I said “I do.” My heart was instantly broken by what he said next. My white gown was a rainbow of hues as the lovely morning light streamed through the stained glass windows. I was staring at my reflection in the full-length mirror and I could not stop smiling. That day was my wedding.

My dearest friend and maid of honor, Lia, exclaimed, “You look absolutely lovely, Esther,” as she fixed my veil. I smiled at her, excitement vibrating in my chest. “It is unbelievable that today has actually arrived. I am going to marry!” A tinge of self-consciousness appeared when Lia assisted me in getting into my wheelchair. I have relied on my wheelchair my entire life due to a limb deformity I was born with. But I was not going to let that get to me down today. Lia comforted me, holding my hand, “Kevin loves you precisely as you are.” “The two of you are meant to be together.”

I nodded, picturing my future spouse standing ready at the altar. Only six months prior, we had connected at a support group. Like me, Kevin was disabled, and our connection had been immediate and deep. For the first time in my life, I experienced genuine understanding and seeing.”Do you recall when we were kids?” Lia adjusted a stray curl as she thought. “You have always declared that you will not get married.”

I laughed, recalling my obstinate youth. “I suppose all I had to do was meet the right guy.” We were startled by a knock on the door. “Esther? Sweetheart, it is time,” my mother called. I smoothed my dress and took a deep breath. “This is the last one. Let us head to the wedding! “When the church doors opened, everyone’s gaze came to me. As my father, Matthews, started to push my wheelchair down the aisle, I experienced a rush of confidence.

My heart lifted as I saw the smile on Kevin’s face as he watched me approach. My father leaned over to give me a cheek kiss as we arrived at the altar. He whispered, “You look wonderful, princess.” “I apologize for not being there for you more often.” I gave him a handshake. “Dad, you are here now. That is the important thing. When the ceremony started, I looked around the seats for the familiar face of my father. It was not long ago that he was there. I scowled when I failed to see him. How far away was he?

We are gathered here today, dearly beloved,” the priest said. I ignored my concern and concentrated on Kevin’s soft smile and warm brown eyes. Nothing could spoil our moment now that it was ours. “Do you consider Esther to be your legally wedded spouse, Kevin?”  Kevin tightened his hold on my hands. “I d—” With a loud bang, the church doors suddenly flew open. “Cease the marriage!” With a contorted expression of anger, my father bounded down the aisle. “THIS BRIDAL IS CALLED OFF! You do not know the true identity of this man.”