Chapter 7 - Rescuing the Little Witness
The ballroom was filled with a stunned quiet after the doors slammed shut behind Tiffany. Guests began whispering among themselves, but Mark calmly took the microphone from the DJ’s booth.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Mark announced, his voice clear and resolute. "I apologize for the short ceremony. The marriage will not be taking place. However, the food is paid for, the bar is open, and we still have plenty to celebrate: we just saved my life from a terrible mistake. Please enjoy the evening as our guests."
The crowd erupted into supportive applause. Mark handed the microphone back and walked over to me and Leo. He knelt down in front of the small boy, who was fighting back tears, terrified that he was going to be punished for what he had done.
"Leo," Mark said gently, placing a big, warm hand on the boy’s trembling shoulder. "Are you okay, buddy?"
"I'm sorry, Mark," Leo sniffled, wiping his nose with his tuxedo sleeve. "I broke your wedding."
Mark pulled the boy into a tight, warm hug. "You didn't break anything, Leo. You saved me. You were the bravest boy in this entire room. You told the truth, and truth is what real men care about."
May you like
Leo looked up, his big brown eyes filled with relief. "Are you going to send me away now?"
Mark looked at me, his eyes shining with emotion, then looked back at Leo. "Never. You're my little buddy, Leo. Your mom might be leaving, but I'm not going anywhere."
