The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the manicured lawn of the vineyard, the air buzzing with the excited chatter of wedding guests. I adjusted my tie, the silk feeling tight against my throat, mirroring the knot of anxiety in my stomach. Beside me, Ethan, my best friend since kindergarten, grinned broadly, his eyes sparkling with anticipation as he watched his bride-to-be across the sprawling garden.

You looked breathtaking in your ivory gown, your laughter carrying on the gentle breeze. I had fallen in love with you the moment Ethan had introduced us, your infectious enthusiasm captivating me instantly. But Ethan was my best friend. So I had buried my feelings deep, becoming the supportive confidant, the ever-present third wheel. Now, as the string quartet began a soft melody, signaling the start of the ceremony, I felt a cold dread wash over me. The internal battle raged, a desperate plea warring with years of ingrained loyalty.

The crucial words hung in the air. "If anyone present knows of any lawful impediment to this marriage, let them speak now or forever hold their peace." A profound silence descended. My palms were clammy. Taking a shaky step forward, I cleared my throat. The polite murmurs of the guests died down, replaced by an unsettling quiet. All eyes turned to me, a sea of confused and questioning faces. Ethan's smile faltered, a look of bewilderment clouding his features.

"Ethan," I began, my voice trembling but gaining strength with each word. "I can't do this." A collective gasp rippled through the guests. Ethan’s brow furrowed in disbelief. "Homaz, what the hell are you talking about?"

My gaze locked onto yours. The years of unspoken longing finally finding voice. "I love you. I have been in love with you since the day Ethan introduced us. Standing here, watching you marry him… it's killing me. I can't pretend any longer." The silence that followed was heavy, thick with unspoken emotions. The gentle rustling of leaves in the vineyard seemed amplified in the stillness.