I Yelled ‘I Don’t!’ at My Own Wedding after Conversation with Groom’s Mother Whose Plan Almost Worked Out

After a chance encounter and years of dating, Ryan and Hanna are about to walk down the aisle and commit to each other. But when Ryan’s mother reveals an incriminating video of Ryan with another woman, Hanna feels her heartbreak. But later, the truth of the video is revealed, along with more deceit than Hanna ever expected.

Do parents just enjoy dropping bombshells before weddings? When I say before—I mean 30 minutes before?

Because that’s exactly what Ryan’s mother did.

An old clock on a piece of newspaper | Source: Pexels

An old clock on a piece of newspaper | Source: Pexels

Ryan and I met two years ago—it was one of those by-chance meetings. I was at the community theatre because one of my friends, Mila, was in the local musical with her directorial debut.

So, there I was, standing outside after the performance, holding a bouquet of flowers for Mila. Ryan walked out, and because of the crowd, walked directly into me, crushing the flowers.

A red curtain at a theatre | Source: Unsplash

A red curtain at a theatre | Source: Unsplash

“I am so sorry,” he said, picking up the bouquet.

“I hate crowds,” I said.

He chuckled and gestured for us to move away from the door.

“I’m not a fan either,” he said. “I’m Ryan.”

“Hanna,” I said, introducing myself.

Crumpled rose petals | Source: Pexels

Crumpled rose petals | Source: Pexels

Just three months into our romance, Ryan proposed in a pub while drinking Guinness and eating crispy potato skins.

Last week, we should have sealed that promise with our wedding vows. But our wedding went in the complete opposite direction it should have gone.

An interior of a pub | Source: Unsplash

An interior of a pub | Source: Unsplash

Initially, my family welcomed Ryan with open arms. As the only daughter, my parents were thrilled that I had met someone who genuinely made me happy.

“This is a different side to you, Hanna,” my mother said one evening when we had Ryan over for family dinner.

“He makes her happy,” my father said, smiling. “That’s all a father could want.”

An elderly couple embracing a younger couple | Source: Pexels

An elderly couple embracing a younger couple | Source: Pexels

Ryan felt welcome—he felt the warmth that they showered him, and through that, we grew stronger as a couple, too.

On his side, it was more or less the same thing. The Coles opened their home and hearts to me, and they wanted nothing more than to have us over as much as possible. Mrs. Cole, Audrey, had gotten into a coffee date and manicure routine with me, too.

A person getting their nails done | Source: Pexels

A person getting their nails done | Source: Pexels

Everything felt right—until the very moment it wasn’t.

Leading up to our wedding, I was the calmest I could have been. It was a small church wedding, and Ryan and I had planned the intimate affair right down to the little details. We knew exactly what we wanted and how to make it special for our day.

But on what was meant to be the happiest day of my life, just before the ceremony, my soon-to-be mother-in-law pulled me aside.

Flowers and tulle along church pews | Source: Pexels

Flowers and tulle along church pews | Source: Pexels

“Darling,” she said. “Can we chat for a moment?”

I nodded and told her to wait until my glam team was done with my hair and makeup.

Something about her demeanor made me feel anxious and nervous. I watched her movements from my reflection in the mirror.

Her eyes moved around the room quickly, often settling on my wedding dress hanging from its hook.

When I was ready, and my mother was buttoning up my dress, I turned to Audrey.

A hanging wedding dress | Source: Pexels

A hanging wedding dress | Source: Pexels

“I’m ready when you are,” I said, smiling at her.

Her eyes glazed over, seeing me in the dress. She had been at my fittings before, but this was the moment that Audrey and my mother would see the full effect of my bridal outfit.

“Hanna,” Audrey said. “There’s no easy way for me to say this.”

A bride in her wedding outfit | Source: Pexels

A bride in her wedding outfit | Source: Pexels

My heart thundered in my chest. While my hair was being done, and I sat watching her, I knew that nothing good was going to come from our conversation.

“Just say it,” I said. “Tell me.”

Audrey pulled her phone out of her clutch and held it out for me.

A woman holding a phone | Source: Pexels

A woman holding a phone | Source: Pexels

“There are videos on this phone that will explain everything. I am so sorry, Hanna, but Ryan needs to be caught out.”

My mind raced. I couldn’t fathom what I was about to see once her phone was unlocked.

“Here,” she said, handing me her phone as a woman’s voice echoed through the room.

The videos on Audrey’s phone revealed Ryan with another woman, in clandestine affection, undeniable betrayal.

An upset woman | Source: Pixabay

An upset woman | Source: Pixabay

“Are you sure?” I asked. “This is him?”

Audrey closed her eyes and took a deep breath.

“Well, look at the jacket on the bed,” she said. “Isn’t that the one you got him?”

I pressed play again, and looked at the jacket. The hotel room also looked familiar—I was so sure that we had been there before.

“But Ryan’s face isn’t in the frame,” I said.

A man wearing a black jacket | Source: Unsplash

A man wearing a black jacket | Source: Unsplash

I was struggling. I couldn’t believe that my almost mother-in-law was standing in front of me with a video showing her son’s affair.

“Hanna,” she said slowly. “It’s right in front of you. You can choose to overlook it, but think of the man that you would be marrying if you choose to ignore it. Could you live with yourself knowing that? Could you live with him?”

I shook my head. I wanted to cry because of how overwhelmed I was.

“Fine,” I said.

“You’re calling off the wedding?” Audrey asked, hope lining her voice.

A smiling older woman | Source: Pexels

A smiling older woman | Source: Pexels

“No,” I said. “I’m going to walk down that aisle. I’m going to walk to the man who has been unfaithful to me. And when the time comes for our vows, I’ll break it off then.”

“Okay, dear,” Audrey said, putting her phone back into her bag. “It’s almost time now, anyway.”

I sat down on the chaise, and waited for my father to come and get me when it was time to marry Ryan. I wanted nothing more than to get into a car and drive away to some place where I could eat my feelings in a mountain of fries.

A father and bride walking down a hallway | Source: Unsplash

A father and bride walking down a hallway | Source: Unsplash

My heart violently pounded with fury as I approached the altar on my father’s arm. Ryan, aware of the storm brewing beneath my skin, smiled tenderly at me. He took my hand and squeezed it.

It would have been absolutely perfect, except for the fact that he had been with someone else.

Our priest went on to quote scripture about love and matrimony from the Bible. And when it was time for our vows, my heart quietened down—finally realizing what was about to come.

A groom at the altar | Source: Pexels

A groom at the altar | Source: Pexels

“I don’t,” I said softly, more to the ground than to Ryan.

“Speak louder, Hanna,” the priest said.

“I don’t!” I said more confidently, the words echoing like a resounding shockwave.

Ryan’s shock morphed into confusion as I repeated those two words again.

“Hanna? What?” he asked, hurt and betrayal deep in his voice.

A couple at the altar | Source: Unsplash

A couple at the altar | Source: Unsplash

“Ask your mom,” I said, pointing at Audrey. “Mrs. Cole, please tell everyone what you told me earlier.”

The church hushed immediately, as if everyone were holding their breath. With shaking hands, she opened her bag and took out her phone. Like earlier, she held it out to me.

“Look,” I said to Ryan.

Ryan took a step back, almost falling over the wedding arch.

“That is not me, Hanna!” he said loudly. “Hanna, you know it’s not me!”

I refused to look him in the eye.

A woman holding a phone | Source: Unsplash

A woman holding a phone | Source: Unsplash

Then he confronted his mother.

“Mom, what is all this? What is that? Where did you get that video?”

Audrey shook her head and walked down the aisle, leaving the church in silence.

I could not bear to hear Ryan’s excuses.

“Hanna, please,” he said. “I need you to believe me.”

And I wanted to. Of course, I wanted to believe the man I loved. But it was clear, the jacket that I bought him lay across the bed in the video. He had been with someone else.

An upset man | Source: Unsplash

An upset man | Source: Unsplash

And if there was the possibility that he wasn’t with another person—how would he explain the video? And the woman who was barely dressed? And the sound effects?

“I can’t do this,” I said. “I won’t.”

I ran out of the side door, my parents following closely behind.

Ryan continued to reach out to me for the rest of the day—and when night settled, I finally blocked his number.

A woman using her phone | Source: Pexels

A woman using her phone | Source: Pexels

Yet, two days later, when I was wrapped in a blanket wondering where everything had gone wrong—Ryan showed up at my parents’ house with takeout and flowers.

“You expect this to fix everything?” I asked.

“I need to talk,” he said simply.

Against my better judgment, I listened.

What Ryan revealed next sent me down another spiral.

He had confronted Audrey after the wedding.

Tulips in a vase | Source: Pexels

Tulips in a vase | Source: Pexels

“I went straight to her house,” he said. “She was sitting there, in her kitchen, eating toast and listening to old records as though she hadn’t just ruined our wedding.”

“I think you did that,” I blurted out.

“Hanna,” he warned. “My mother orchestrated that video. The people in it are her students. And it was all because she didn’t want us to get married.”

My jaw hit the ground.

A shocked woman covering her eyes | Source: Unsplash

A shocked woman covering her eyes | Source: Unsplash

Audrey was a high school teacher—but she also tutored first-year college kids in English. So, when it truly came down to the fact that Ryan and I were actually getting married, she panicked. She called two of her college students, who were too eager to make a bit of extra money, to play the part.

“I thought she liked me,” I said while digging into the food Ryan had brought over. “Clearly she doesn’t if she put an entire video together.”

“She did say that the sounds were edited,” Ryan chuckled nervously. “But I’ve got to hand it to her, adding my jacket was a good touch.”

A black jacket lying on a bed | Source: Unsplash

A black jacket lying on a bed | Source: Unsplash

I didn’t understand how I felt. For the past two days, since walking away from my own wedding—I convinced myself that Ryan had been the bad guy in my story. That he was the villain who broke my heart, while his mother exposed him for who he was.

And yet, the reality was so much worse.

Here was a woman who had claimed me as the daughter she never had, only to break my heart before marrying her son.

She believed I was unworthy of Ryan.

I forgave Ryan immediately, and he did the same in return—I did accuse him of cheating on me in front of all our guests.

A woman sitting and looking out the window | Source: Pexels

A woman sitting and looking out the window | Source: Pexels

We’re still together, but I don’t know what the future holds. For now, I feel hurt and betrayed by Audrey. And I know that forgiveness will be difficult to come by for her.

What would you do?

If you enjoyed this story, here’s another one for you |

My Mother-in-Law Tried to Ruin Our Wedding by Pitting Us against Each Other

Maya, as a wedding planner, is used to crazy weddings. So, when her wedding rolls around, she thinks that she has planned everything right down to the final detail. Until her fiancé goes missing and her mother-in-law plots for the end of their relationship…

As a wedding planner, I’ve had my fair share of crazy weddings. From bridezillas to lazy grooms, to the most insane requests. Once, I had a couple who wanted to say their vows on a hot air balloon — only for the bride to realize that she was afraid of heights.

For my wedding, I was so sure that Fred and I were ready. That we had finally gotten everything done right. But I even so, I wanted my colleague, Jenna, to take over the logistics behind the wedding. I wanted to have my moment as a bride.

An orange hot air balloon | Source: Pexels

An orange hot air balloon | Source: Pexels

Fred knew that I was in my element when it came to our wedding, so he left everything to me — other than making sure that there would be sliders are the wedding reception, everything was on me.

We met Jenna in a restaurant about a year before our wedding, and I gave her everything she needed to know in a planner. It was going to be easy for her — all she needed to do was the admin behind the plans. And to bring the vision to life.

“Maya,” she said, sipping on her drink. “This is perfect. You’ve planned everything.”

A wedding planner's notebook | Source: Pexels

A wedding planner’s notebook | Source: Pexels

Everything was ticking along perfectly, with each detail meticulously planned and poised for what was meant to be the happiest day of our lives.

Until three nights before the wedding, when all hell broke loose.

A couple sitting at a table | Source: Pexels

A couple sitting at a table | Source: Pexels

It must have been around 8PM, and I was unwinding by watching reality television and eating a slice of pie.

I had my nail appointment the next morning, and I was finally starting to feel like a bride. In the past few weeks, Fred and I seemed to find anything and everything to fight about. We argued with no reason, until it was time to sleep.

At least, this week, Fred was staying with his best man.

“Just to get him out of your hair for a bit, Maya,” he said.

“You’ll get no complaints from me,” I told him. “Just keep him out of trouble.”

A brown duffel bag on the floor | Source: Unsplash

A brown duffel bag on the floor | Source: Unsplash

But it’s never so simple, right?

No. My doorbell rang, disrupting my night in.

The person standing on the other side was a delivery man, holding a huge bouquet of flowers.

“That’s beautiful,” I said. “Who is it from?”

“There’s a card, ma’am,” the delivery man said.

He handed the bouquet to me and turned around to walk down the stairs.

A bouquet of flowers | Source: Pexels

A bouquet of flowers | Source: Pexels

“Oh, Fred,” I said, sniffing the flowers.

Sending me random flowers was something that he would do.

But then I read the card and my heart dropped into the pit of my stomach.

I Don’t was written on the card.

All the air inside my lungs suddenly went out. I sat down on the couch and cried my heart out.

After a few hours, I called Fred about twenty times. He never picked up.

A woman holding a phone at night | Source: Pexels

A woman holding a phone at night | Source: Pexels

Want to know what happens next? Read the full story here!

This work is inspired by real events and people, but it has been fictionalized for creative purposes. Names, characters, and details have been changed to protect privacy and enhance the narrative. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental and not intended by the author.

The author and publisher make no claims to the accuracy of events or the portrayal of characters and are not liable for any misinterpretation. This story is provided “as is,” and any opinions expressed are those of the characters and do not reflect the views of the author or publisher.

This is what sleeping on the left side does for our brain, stomach & glymphatic health

Most of us don’t think twice about how we sleep. We just curl up in whatever position feels most comfortable and drift off. But did you know that your sleeping position can affect your brain function, digestion, and overall health? Studies suggest that sleeping on your left side offers surprising benefits, from improving digestion to enhancing your brain’s natural detox system.

If you’ve never considered changing your sleep posture, now might be the time! Let’s explore the science behind left-side sleeping and how it can positively impact your body.

The Surprising Benefits of Sleeping on Your Left Side

Sleeping on your left side isn’t just about comfort—it can actually improve several bodily functions. Here are the top benefits of making the switch.

Supports a Healthier Spine & Reduces Back Pain

Ever wake up with an aching back? Sleeping on your stomach or even your back can put unnecessary strain on your spine. When you sleep on your left side, your spine stays in a more natural alignment, reducing tension in your lower back. If you suffer from chronic back pain, switching to your left side could be a game-changer.

Helps Reduce Snoring & Sleep Apnea Symptoms

Snoring happens when the airway is partially blocked. When you sleep on your back, your tongue and soft palate fall backward, making snoring worse. Side sleeping, especially on the left side, keeps your airway open, reducing both snoring and symptoms of sleep apnea. If your partner often complains about your snoring, this might be the easiest fix.

Video : What Sleeping On Your Left Side Does For Our Brain, Stomach And Lymphatic Health

Aids Digestion & Reduces Acid Reflux

Sleeping on your left side can actually help your digestive system. Since your stomach is naturally positioned on the left side of your body, lying on that side allows gravity to aid digestion. This can help prevent acid reflux and heartburn, improve digestion by helping food move smoothly through the intestines, and reduce bloating and constipation.

Boosts Brain Health Through the Glymphatic System

Did you know your brain has a built-in cleaning system? It’s called the glymphatic system, and it works mainly while you sleep. This system helps flush out toxins and waste that accumulate in the brain during the day.

Research suggests that side sleeping improves glymphatic drainage, meaning it can help remove harmful substances linked to neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. In short, sleeping on your left side may support better brain health and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

Enhances Circulation & Heart Health

Sleeping on your left side also helps your heart work more efficiently. Because your aorta (the main artery) curves to the left, sleeping on this side reduces pressure on the heart, making it easier for blood to flow.

For pregnant women, doctors highly recommend sleeping on the left side to improve circulation to both the mother and the baby.

How to Train Yourself to Sleep on Your Left Side

If you’re a back or stomach sleeper, you might be wondering how do I train myself to sleep on my left side? Here are some helpful tips.

Use the Right Pillow & Mattress

A firm mattress and a good pillow will support your neck and keep your spine aligned while you sleep. A memory foam pillow that conforms to your head and neck is ideal.

Use a Pillow as a Barrier

Placing a pillow behind your back can prevent you from rolling onto your back while you sleep. If you want extra support, try hugging a pillow to keep your upper body stable.

Put a Pillow Between Your Knees

If you experience hip or knee discomfort, a small pillow between your knees can help reduce strain on your joints and keep your spine aligned.

Wear a Sleep Shirt with a Tennis Ball

This is an old trick, but it works. Sewing a tennis ball into the back of your sleep shirt makes it uncomfortable to roll onto your back, helping you stay on your side.

Try Sleeping on a Couch Temporarily

If you’re struggling to train yourself, sleeping on a narrow couch for a few nights might help, as it naturally limits movement.

The Downsides of Side Sleeping

While sleeping on your left side has numerous benefits, it’s not perfect for everyone. Here are a few potential drawbacks.

Shoulder & Hip Discomfort

If you sleep on a too-firm mattress, your shoulder and hip may feel sore due to added pressure. The solution is a softer mattress or a memory foam topper that can help cushion these areas.

Facial Wrinkles & Puffiness

Pressing your face into a pillow every night can cause wrinkles over time. If this concerns you, try using a silk pillowcase to reduce friction on your skin.

Jaw Stiffness

If you suffer from TMJ (jaw pain), sleeping on one side might add pressure to your jaw. Switching sides occasionally or using a softer pillow can help alleviate this issue.

Comparing Sleeping Positions: Which Is Best for You?

If sleeping on your left side doesn’t feel right for you, let’s compare other sleeping positions.

Sleeping on Your Back: Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Good for spinal alignment
  • Reduces pressure on joints
  • Helps prevent facial wrinkles

Cons:

  • Can worsen snoring and sleep apnea
  • Increases risk of acid reflux

Sleeping on Your Stomach: Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Can reduce snoring

Cons:

  • Puts strain on the neck and spine
  • Increases risk of back pain
  • Can restrict breathing.

Sleeping on Your Right Side: Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Still helps with snoring
  • Better than stomach sleeping

Cons:

  • Can worsen acid reflux
  • Doesn’t support circulation as well as left-side sleeping

Video : Sleeping on Your Left Side…Your Body’s Best Resting Position! Dr. Mandell

Final Thoughts: Should You Switch to Sleeping on Your Left Side?

Your sleep position plays a bigger role in your health than you might realize. While everyone has their own preferred sleeping posture, sleeping on your left side offers significant benefits for your brain, digestion, heart, and spine.

If you often wake up with back pain, acid reflux, or poor circulation, making the switch to left-side sleeping might improve your overall well-being. However, comfort is key, so if this position doesn’t feel right, listen to your body and find what works best for you.

Now, over to you. Do you sleep on your left side, or will you try switching? Let us know in the comments. Sweet dreams and better sleep ahead!

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