When I told my parents what had happened, they were shocked by Alicia’s age and questioned why I’d agreed to marry her.
“Because there wasn’t anything else I could do for her,” I said.
Mom shook her head sadly.
“That doesn’t mean marrying her was the solution.”
They believed I hadn’t pursued Alicia for money, but they didn’t think that made my decision right.
Meanwhile, Nora posted our wedding photograph online, accusing me of exploiting her dying sister for an inheritance.
The accusation spread quickly.
I wanted to defend myself, so I considered sharing Alicia’s private note. But I realized I was about to use her personal words to protect my reputation.
I put my phone down.
The hospital review continued, and my professional future remained uncertain. With my income at risk, my father offered me work at his shop.
