“You see the world differently,” Ethan continued, stepping closer. “Where others see chaos, you see color. Where others see weakness, you see potential. I promise to cherish you, not for what you have, but for who you are. I promise to be the safe harbor for your artistic soul. I promise to protect your heart from a world that is often too harsh for it.”

In the front row, Linda nodded approvingly, looking like the cat who got the cream. She caught my eye and mouthed, Beautiful.

I felt bile rising in my throat. Protect my heart. He was planning to carve it out and sell it.

“I promise,” Ethan finished, his voice dropping to a seductive whisper, “that as long as I live, you will never have to face anything alone. I will be your strength.”

He folded the paper and wiped another tear.

The priest turned to me. “Elena? Your vows?”