My Ex-Husband Invited Me to His Wedding Just to Watch Me Show Up Alone — So I Hired a Stranger to Be My Date. The Moment the Bride Saw Him, Her Face Went White.

When the ivory envelope arrived, I already knew it was going to ruin my afternoon.

There was only one person I knew who would spend twelve dollars on stationery just to make someone else uncomfortable.

My ex-husband.

I stood at my kitchen counter staring at my name written in expensive black calligraphy.

Claire Bennett.

No “and guest.”

Of course.

I almost threw the envelope into the trash without opening it.

Almost.

Then curiosity won.

Inside was a wedding invitation printed on thick cream-colored paper with gold lettering.

Mason Whitmore & Vanessa Cole request the pleasure of your company…

The ceremony would be held at Hawthorne Ridge, a luxury vineyard outside Charlottesville, Virginia.

Black tie.

Champagne reception.

Live orchestra.

Everything about it screamed Mason.

Elegant.

Expensive.

And desperate to impress people.

I was already laughing when a smaller handwritten card slipped out.

I picked it up.

Mason’s handwriting hadn’t changed.

Claire,

I know this might feel awkward, but I hope enough time has passed for us to celebrate each other’s happiness. I’d really like you to come.