The engine hummed a low, steady rhythm, but it was a jarring counterpoint to the chaotic symphony in Chase's chest. He gripped the steering wheel, knuckles white, the anger a hot, corrosive acid in his veins. Beside him, Aubrey stared out the window, a silent, beautiful statue.

"Are you even listening to me?" he snapped, his voice a low growl. "I'm trying to plan our honeymoon here, and you're acting like you don’t give a shit. What gives?"

She finally turned, a faint 'huh?' escaping her lips, then a mumbled, "Nothing. I'm sorry. I guess I'm just a little distracted."

"A little?" He scoffed, the car skidding to a halt on the side of the road. Aubrey lurched forward then slammed back into her seat. "It's like you're not even here anymore. I'm pretty much planning this whole wedding with Payton and your mother!"

Silence stretched, thick and suffocating. His heart was a drumbeat of despair. "Look, if you don't want to do this, I understand. We can call it all off," he whispered, the words tearing at his throat. He knew the truth. He'd known it for weeks.

"You love Jesse!" The words burst from him, raw and uncontrollable, a final, crushing admission. Her eyes, wide with shock, finally met his. His heart shattered right there in the quiet of the car.