Alice, although breathless, calmed down as she took her seat on the bride’s side of the church, her new boyfriend Mark, at her side. They had arrived almost too late but the young Usher had found them seats at the back of the church just as the Bride's car drew up outside, ignoring her offered invitation card in his haste. Her friend Margaret, beautiful and wealthy Margaret, had found the perfect husband. Alice had not met him because she had been abroad for two years but she knew he was heir to a fortune and felt the familiar surge of jealousy associated with thoughts of Margaret. She clutched Mark's hand, happy that a society wedding would impress him.

Mark noted carefully the wealth and quality surrounding him. Some of these daft frocks and hats must have cost a fortune. And the jewellery! Look at that bloody necklace, he thought. Society sporting its finest, and he smiled. With rich pickings all around he settled happily on the uncomfortable pew to await the reception and the opportunities it would bring. Alice stared at him adoringly. She was an irritating woman but cultivating her had been well worth the effort and he felt sure he would find a suitable replacement today.

The smiling Bride squeezed her father's arm as the wedding march began and the entire congregation turned to watch them. In the pew nearest her she noticed a woman she did not know. The woman was staring at her with what seemed utter bewilderment. Then she noticed the woman’s companion.

“Mark! Oh my God, what’s he doing here?”

She felt her father stiffen, heard his muttered curse. Then the loathing she felt for Mark, the feeling of betrayal, the fear, crowded back into her mind, and the carefree happiness of the moment before was gone.