She tossed a small gift box from her purse, landing it right at Albert's feet. He recognized it instantly as the New Year's gift he'd given her. Now she was returning it.

He still remembered saying, “Happy New Year, Jessie."

But now, she was using it to mark the end between them.

Albert stared at the box on the ground, choosing not to pick it up.

The wedding crowd was buzzing with whispers and glances. Even the bride's expression turned pale, but Albert didn't console her.