Walk slowly (edited)

Chapter 10

After I finished showering, I was directed to prepare for my wedding, which took almost an hour to get ready. If we follow the plan or arrangement, the wedding will take place at 10 a.m.

I looked at the wall where my clock was. It was almost time.

Suddenly, I felt nervous, uneasy at the thought of the shame that my father and mother will face when this wedding did not take place as planned.

“Father, mom... I’m sorry. I am also not asking for all of this to happen to me.”

*****

The atmosphere became more boisterous when the groom still has not arrived even after almost half an hour, with the priest and all present waiting for the ceremony. From the room that I occupied, I saw dad dialed his phone several times. I know that Father was certainly trying to get news from Mr Tuan. Mom stayed beside me, trying to calm me. Only God knows how guilty I felt for what happened. If I could, I would certainly tell them the truth, that Mark will never come.

But I had to remain silent. If not, my relationship with Father would be tenuous. Without realizing it, tears began to drop one-by-one. I can’t hold it in anymore. I really wanted to beg for forgiveness from both my parents. It was not my intention to deliberately let all this happen, but I have no power to hold it. Even my own heart hurts, torn with disappointment and how I wish the pain will disappear soon. My soul cried along with my body until my tears dried up. No matter what, I had to face all this and stay strong.

“Hey... Jinyoungie what happen?” I immediately looked up when I heard a voice coming from the doorway of the bride room.

“Jaebum hyung!” Somewhat, I was surprised with the presence of Jaebum at this time.

“Jinyoung, I cannot contact Mark’s family. Did Mark call you, to tell you why they are late?”

Before I could answer Jaebum’s questions, another question came to my ear. I gazed at Jaebum and then father, not knowing what to say to Jaebum or father.

“I think... Mark will not come, father.”

All the people in the room were shocked by what I have just said. I did not want to make mom and father continue waiting for the presence of a groom who would not come.

“What are you talking about, Park Jinyoung?” Father asked as he slowly walked toward me.

And this time, I did not lift my face, too scared to look at Father’s face, especially after I had destroyed everything they’ve planned tirelessly.

“I’m asking you, Jinyoung, what did you say?” Father raised his voice.

“Talk to me Jinyoung... talk!” Father grabbed me by my shoulders.

“What happened, son? Please tell us…” Now, it’s mom’s turn to speak, forcing me to explain everything, “Jinyoung! Tell your father what happened!”

“What have you done that he did not want to come? Talk to me, Park Jinyoung!” Father was still asking even though there were no answer coming out of my mouth.

“Calm down, uncle.” Jaebum’s voice sounded, trying to calm the situation. He pulled Father, who had been shaking my body nonstop, away.

“How can I calm down, Jaebum? Where do I put my face, Jaebum... where?!” Father let go of what was in his heart to Jaebum.

Luckily Jaebum was not a stranger in my family. He already visited my house so many times as a friend since I became his colleague.

“Every problem has a solution, uncle.” Jaebum responded, trying to take my side.