The plane arrived at Washington Dulles International Airport overnight and the next day, I found myself at the wedding hotel.

Following Zoey's advice, I donned a simple, light-colored dress and minimal makeup. I took her arm and together, we walked into Julian's wedding.

The wedding was held in a magnificent, high-end and elegant five-star hotel, the kind that ordinary people would never visit a few times in their lives. Some people even might never set foot here in their entire lives.

Zoey walked beside me and grumbled about Julian's lavish spending on another woman. At the same time, she also complained that my ex now had a successful career at such a young age.

After all, Julian's company was just starting a couple of years before, so it seemed unlikely he could afford such extravagance on his own.

I chose to remain silent amidst her murmurs and did not say a word. Two years had passed since our break-up and his life was no longer my concern. Now, I was just another guest attending Julian's wedding.

That was what I thought before I stepped inside. However, nothing could have prepared me for the scene that unfolded before me as I entered the hall.

Soft music filled the air and the dreamy pink decor transformed the space into a land of fantasy that was undeniably built for someone's lovely princess.

Indeed, it was designed by Julian for his beautiful bride.

At the same time, rows of waiters moved among the guests with trolleys, displaying impeccable and professional manners and clearly trained to a very high standard.

Delicacies from land and sea, exquisite champagnes and decadent desserts were all displayed.

This wedding was a testament to immense wealth and power. It far surpassed any family weddings I had attended before. I had never seen such a magnificent design and meticulous arrangement.

It spoke volumes about how deep Julian's dedication to his beloved wife was.

However, more than these opulent displays, what puzzled me most was why Julian had arranged for me to sit at the VIP table. I was so confused that a cynical thought flickered across my mind. Was he doing this so I could have a close-up view of the happy newlywed couple?

My confusion persisted until Zoey guided me to a seat at one of the central tables near the stage.

Three main tables dominated the space. One reserved for immediate families, another for the bridesmaids and groomsmen and the third designated for VIPs. It was at the VIP table where I found myself placed.

But could an ex-girlfriend truly qualify as a VIP guest?

The occupants were a familiar circle, Julian's closest friends and associates. A jovial, joyful chatter filled the air as I arrived and the atmosphere felt surprisingly welcoming.

Among them were even a few faces I had introduced to Julian myself back then.

This group, at least, offered a sense of familiarity amidst the swirling emotions, so I did not feel any awkwardness at all.

Their conversation sputtered to a halt as I approached, a momentary hush falling over the table. I greeted them warmly, but a flicker of curiosity sparked as I casually scanned the group. Unlike usual groomsmen, none of the men wore boutonnieres on their chests, which I found odd.

I could not help but wonder, so I asked, "Didn't Julian ask you guys to be his groomsmen?"

I directed this question to the few who were closest to Julian. Traditionally, wouldn't a groom have his closest friends by his side to support him?

Julian's approach seemed unusual.

A knowing look passed between them. Apparently, they seemed to understand my confusion. "Nope, he didn't ask any of us. Julian said the bride's family had it covered," one explained. "No room for us."

"Guess we'll have to wait for his next wedding to be groomsmen, then?" another chuckled.

"Maybe in the next life. Hahaha," quipped another, laughter rippling through the table.

Everyone at the table joined in, laughing and making jokes. Except for me. I usually found things funny easily, but I did not think this was amusing at all. It was genuinely strange.