Flightless Bird

S2: Chapter 6 : Smiling When I die

Yin's POV

I stood in front of the mirror, staring at my reflection as my mother fussed over my suit, smoothing the fabric, and making sure every detail was perfect.

Bai was sitting on the armchair nearby, scrolling through her phone but chiming in with the occasional comment, clearly enjoying the moment.

The room was buzzing with excitement, but there was this strange, hollow feeling sitting heavy in my chest.

"Yinyin, you look so handsome!" Mom said with a huge smile, her eyes practically glowing.

She reached up to adjust my collar for what felt like the hundredth time.

"Mom, it's fine," I chuckled, gently pushing her hands away.

"Fine isn't good enough today. Today has to be perfect!" she insisted, her eyes brimming with pride. "I still can't believe my baby is getting married."

Bai looked up from her phone, rolling her eyes playfully. "Oh, please. Yin hasn't been a baby for years. But, yes, he does look ridiculously handsome." She smirked at me. "Aom is one lucky girl."

"Thanks," I replied, giving a small smile.

I tried to match their energy, but my heart wasn't in it.

Bai stood up and walked over to me, pretending to inspect my outfit. "Hmm, you're almost as good-looking as I am." She winked. "But, I'm going to knock everyone's socks off today."

I laughed, shaking my head. "Leave it to you to find a way to make my wedding about you."

"Well, what else are sisters for?" she said, sticking her tongue out before grabbing my hand, squeezing it gently.

"You nervous?"

I hesitated before answering.

"A bit."

Mom was still fluttering around me, adjusting this and that, making sure I looked "perfect."

I watched her out of the corner of my eye, wondering if she could sense what I was really feeling, even though I hadn't said anything.

Suddenly, the door swung open, and in walked Dad, his face lit up with a wide smile.

"Well, look at this! My boy's all grown up!"

"Dad!" I exclaimed, a genuine smile breaking through my face as he walked over and embraced me in a strong hug.

"Sorry I'm so late," he said, pulling back and looking me over with pride.

"Work has been insane, but I wasn't going to miss this for the world. You look incredible, Yin."

"It's fine, Dad," I said, patting his shoulder. "I'm just glad you're here."

He turned to my mom and sister, giving them quick hugs before turning back to me. "Are you ready for this, son? It's a big step."

"I am," I said, nodding. But my heart wasn't in the words.

Everyone was so excited. They were all so happy for me.

Mom looked at me, tears gathering in her eyes. "Your father and I couldn't be prouder of you, Yin. You're starting a new chapter of your life, and we're just so happy to be a part of it."

Bai nodded enthusiastically. "Yeah, bro, you're going to crush this whole marriage thing. You and Aom are perfect together."

I smiled at them, trying to soak in their happiness.

But inside, my mind was somewhere else. Or rather, with someone else.

War.

No matter how much I tried to push it away, I couldn't stop thinking about him.