The dinner.

Mark came to see him, a disappointed look in his eyes.

“What are you doing?” He asked.

“I don’t know. Saving my company, I guess.”

“Tracy didn’t come with me.”

“No, I didn’t think she would. How is she?”

“She’s fine. The baby is getting big.”

“Good.”

“Dude, really. You don’t have to do this.”

“I do, though. But thanks. I’ll see you out there.”

Mark shook his head and left. His best friend was fading away before his eyes. There was no fire in him anymore. It was only a matter of time until he was completely extinguished.

Lucien took his place at the altar. He turned on a false, but bright smile. Camera lights flashed in his eyes. Mia came down the aisle, but he didn’t see her.

“Dearly beloved,” the officiant began. “We are gathered here today, the presence of beloved family and friends to celebrate the union of these two people in love.” The officiant’s words were white noise to Lucien. Everything was a haze. He said the right words when he needed to say them, smiled when he needed to