Nathan’s face flushed with anger and embarrassment. “Is this true?” he demanded, looking at his parents.
Diane stammered, “We… we can explain.”
But I didn’t let them. “There’s no explanation for this. You’ve hurt my daughter, and it’s time you faced the consequences.”
“Mom’s right,” Jinny said firmly. “I deserve better.”
Nathan turned to Jinny, his expression softening. “I’m so sorry, Jinny. I had no idea. I–I can’t believe this!”
“It’s okay, Nathan,” Jinny said, looking at him. “Now we know the truth, and we can move forward. I’m sorry that things have come to this.”
Nathan, Jinny, and I were the first to stand up, ready to leave the restaurant. Nathan’s hurt was evident, and I knew he needed some time to process everything. We gathered our things, giving Diane and Charles one last, pointed look before heading out.
As we walked out of the restaurant, I saw Evelyn, a reporter I had contacted beforehand. We had known each other for years, but today, she was here in her professional capacity, her camera crew ready.
“Hazel, can you tell us what happened in there?” Evelyn asked, holding out a microphone.
“Diane and Charles, my daughter’s in-laws, stole money meant for my daughter’s wedding and used it for their own needs,” I said. “They’ve been involved in numerous scams, and it’s time the world knew.”
The camera crew filmed as I detailed the evidence Lucas had uncovered. Jinny stood beside me, her hand in mine, looking stronger than ever.
Evelyn nodded, listening intently. “This story will reach a lot of people, Hazel. Thank you for your bravery.”
And the story went viral overnight. The public backlash was immediate and fierce. Diane and Charles faced both social and legal repercussions, losing their home and being forced to repay the stolen money.
With the money returned, Jinny and I set about planning a new, beautiful wedding. This time, everything was perfect. I was there to see her walk down the aisle, surrounded by people who genuinely cared about her.
