If someone asks me why I married a groom with children in a second marriage, I would probably only give one answer – because of my father.
Years ago, my father was seriously injured in an accident and has since become semi-disabled. I left everything behind, gave up a lot of opportunities, and took care of him wholeheartedly. But time will not stop us in the end, my father's needs are increasing, and I am no longer up to the task alone. So, I decided to look for someone who could share my responsibility and take care of my father.
That day, a friend introduced my current husband, named Zhang Yu (Zhāng Yǔ). He had been through something similar before, treating his father in a similar way to me. We talked a lot and he promised me that he would take care of my father with me and give me happiness, and I believed in him.
On my wedding day, I walked to the groom expectantly in a pure white wedding dress. However, when I saw Zhang Yu's indifferent expression, doubts began to spread in my heart.
There was no joy on his face, as if he was waiting for an inescapable fate. I tried to hold back the uneasiness in my heart and asked softly, "Yuyu, do you regret it?" He didn't answer, just silently stared into the distance, as if he hadn't heard my question at all.
My heart sank all at once. I promised my father happiness and stability, but now it seems that all this may just be my self-inflicted fantasy.
Seeing the wedding progress to the most crucial part, I suddenly felt desperate. I can't allow myself to continue living in this shadow of abandonment. I clenched my fists tightly, took a deep breath, and took off my wedding dress.
With a gasping sound, everyone was stunned, including Zhang Yu. I ignored their gazes and turned away from the wedding scene.
At that moment, I felt extremely relaxed. Perhaps, for the first time in a long time, this is the first decision I have made for myself.
The next day, I officially proposed to abandon marriage with Zhang Yu. He did not express any opposition or remorse, as if everything that had happened before was just a farce for him.
I was injured, but I don't regret it. I understand that this man does not have responsibility and true love. I can't expect him to have any understanding of the patience and sacrifice I put in.
The attitude of my in-laws also disappointed me. They didn't give me any care and comfort and seemed unconcerned about the failure of this wedding.
I chose to abandon the marriage in order to protect my father and daughter from suffering again. I believe that even without the bondage of marriage, the love between me and my father will be more pure and firm.
After this experience, I learned to value myself even more. I know that in order to take care of others, we cannot completely ignore our own happiness and needs.
Today, I continue to work, take care of my father, and enjoy life. I firmly believe that one day, I will meet someone who truly cherishes me and enter the palace of marriage with him.