I was a college student working part-time at a café. Money was tight, and I had no idea how I could afford the flights, the hotel, and the new clothes such a glamorous wedding would require.

That’s when Lydia surprised me. One afternoon, she called and said, “Bella, I know this wedding might be financially stressful for you, and I don’t want you to worry. Your father and I want to cover your plane ticket. We’ll book it for you. You just need to show up.”

I was stunned. It was the first time she’d ever shown me any real generosity. “That’s… really kind of you,” I said cautiously.

“Of course,” she replied smoothly. “You’re family. We wouldn’t dream of leaving you behind.”