Blamed

Chapter 8: A New Beginning

One day, Sage received an invitation to Ronnie and Renee's wedding. It was a moment of mixed emotions for her. She was happy for her friends, but attending the wedding meant confronting her feelings for Ronnie.

As the wedding day approached, Sage made a decision. She would go, not just to support her friends, but to close that chapter of her life. She needed to move on, to let go of the past and embrace the future.

The morning of the wedding was crisp and clear, the sky a brilliant shade of blue. Sage dressed carefully, choosing a simple yet elegant dress that made her feel confident. She looked at herself in the mirror, taking a deep breath. This was a day of celebration and healing.

When Sage arrived at the venue, she was greeted by the sight of beautiful decorations and smiling faces. The air was filled with a sense of joy and anticipation. She found a seat among the guests, her heart racing slightly as she spotted Ronnie standing at the altar, looking both nervous and excited.

The ceremony was beautiful, filled with heartfelt vows and loving glances. Sage watched as Ronnie and Renee exchanged rings, their love for each other evident in every gesture. It was a bittersweet moment for her, but also a cathartic one. She realized that true love was about letting go and wanting the best for those you care about.

After the ceremony, Sage mingled with the other guests, catching up with old friends and making new acquaintances. She was surprised at how many people came up to her, offering words of support and admiration for her strength. It was a reminder that she was not alone, and that her journey had inspired others.

Later, as the reception got into full swing, Sage found herself sitting at a table, watching the newlyweds share their first dance. She smiled, feeling a sense of peace wash over her. This was the closure she needed, the final step in letting go of her past.

Just then, Renee approached her, a warm smile on her face. "Hey, Sage. I'm so glad you could make it."

Sage stood up, hugging her friend tightly. "I wouldn't have missed it for the world. You look absolutely stunning, Renee."

"Thank you," Renee said, blushing slightly. "I know it might have been difficult for you to come today, but it means a lot to both Ronnie and me."

Sage nodded, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "It was difficult, but I'm glad I came. Seeing you two so happy has helped me more than you know."

Renee squeezed her hand. "You deserve happiness too, Sage. I hope you know that."

As the night went on, Sage found herself laughing and dancing with friends, feeling a sense of liberation. The weight of the past was lifting, replaced by the lightness of new possibilities.

In the midst of the celebration, Sage excused herself and stepped outside for a moment of quiet reflection. The cool evening air felt refreshing, and she gazed up at the stars, feeling a profound sense of gratitude.

"Hey, Sage," a familiar voice called out.

She turned to see Onyx approaching, a gentle smile on his face. "Hi, Onyx. Enjoying the wedding?"

"Yeah, it's beautiful," he replied, joining her. "I just wanted to check on you. How are you holding up?"

Sage took a deep breath, feeling a sense of calm. "I'm doing better than I thought I would. Today was exactly what I needed to finally let go and move on."

Onyx nodded, his eyes filled with understanding. "I'm glad to hear that. You're stronger than you realize, Sage."

They stood in comfortable silence, the sounds of the reception fading into the background. Sage felt a sense of clarity, a newfound determination to embrace the future.

"Thank you for being here, Onyx," she said softly. "Your support means a lot to me."

"Always," he replied, his gaze steady. "You deserve happiness, Sage. Don't ever forget that."

As the evening drew to a close, Sage returned to the reception, feeling lighter and more hopeful. She danced and laughed with her friends, cherishing the moments of joy and connection.

As she was getting ready to leave, Ronnie found her, a grateful smile on his face. "Sage, thank you for coming. It meant the world to us."

Sage hugged him tightly, feeling a sense of closure. "I'm happy for you, Ronnie. You and Renee are perfect for each other."

He pulled back, looking at her with a mixture of sadness and admiration. "I hope you find someone who makes you as happy as Renee makes me."

Sage smiled, feeling a sense of peace. "I will, Ronnie. Thank you."

Driving home that night, Sage felt a renewed sense of purpose. She was ready to face whatever the future held, armed with the strength she had gained from her journey. The past no longer had a hold on her, and she was free to create a new beginning.

Back in her apartment, Sage looked around at the paintings that adorned her walls, each one a testament to her resilience. She picked up her sketchbook and began to draw, her heart filled with hope and determination.

She knew that life would have its challenges, but she was ready to face them. With each stroke of her pencil, she crafted a new chapter in her story, one filled with love, strength, and endless possibilities.

Sage was no longer defined by the lies and betrayals of the past. She was defined by her courage, her creativity, and her unwavering spirit. And she knew that, no matter what, she would continue to rise, stronger and more determined than ever.