The Push No One Could Pretend Not to See
The engagement party was at Colin’s parents’ lake house — string lights overhead, white linens on the tables, a pool in the middle of the stone patio reflecting the sunset. It was beautiful. For a while, it even felt peaceful.
Guests arrived, hugging us, admiring my ring, telling us how perfect we were together. I started to relax, to actually enjoy the night.
Kira showed up late, of course, dressed to turn heads. She hugged me too tightly and said, loud enough for people nearby: “Wow, you definitely picked a dress that guarantees no one will look at anyone else tonight.”
I smiled, walked away, and refused to bite.
After dinner, everyone drifted outside around the pool — talking, taking photos, drinks in hand. I was standing near the water’s edge chatting with a couple of friends when I heard Kira’s voice behind me.
“Megan!”
I turned, expecting another snide remark. She stepped toward me like she was going in for a hug.
And then she shoved me. Hard.
I didn’t have time to react. My heels slipped. My arms flailed uselessly. I hit the pool with a massive splash.
The cold knocked the breath out of me. I came up gasping, mascara running, my beautiful champagne dress plastered to my body.
