That day, like any other, we arrived early to set everything in place before the guests and the newlyweds appeared.

About an hour later, the guests began arriving, their cheerful chatter filling the room as they waited for the bride and groom to return from their photos. I was in the restroom when my coworker, Nessa, rushed in, her face pale and uneasy.

“Harper, listen,” Nessa said, her voice trembling, “I think you should leave.”

“Leave? Why would I do that?” I asked. “Are you just trying to take more shifts for yourself? Sorry, but I need the money just like you do.”