Weddings are happy celebrations, but they can also show family problems. This story shows that well.

I explained what happened. I have a younger brother, Mike, who has always been the favorite child. He’s spoiled, demanding, and often unpleasant. My parents always gave him lots of attention and ignored me. My dad was supportive but never stood up to my mom, who especially spoiled Mike. The only person who stood up for me was my grandpa, but he lived far away, so I didn’t see him often.

Mike knew he was the favorite and often bragged about it. He got away with everything, and my parents even used my college fund to buy him a car and a house. Despite this, I managed to go to a public university where I met Lucas, who became my best friend and then my fiancé. Together, we built successful careers and a happy life.

When Lucas proposed, my parents barely noticed. We planned a simple wedding and invited them, but they didn’t respond. My mom ignored my attempts to talk about the wedding and focused on Mike’s achievements instead. She told me they couldn’t attend any event on a certain date because of Mike’s football game. I decided not to tell her that this date was my wedding.

Our wedding was perfect, with friends, family, and my grandpa walking me down the aisle. People asked about my parents’ absence, and I explained they chose Mike’s game instead. My grandpa was angry, but the day went smoothly.

After our honeymoon, we returned to many messages. A photo of the wedding went viral, showing my parents’ absence and causing public shame. My grandpa confronted my parents, and my dad, feeling guilty and ashamed, finally stood up to my mom, threatening divorce if she didn’t make amends.

Now, my parents are sending me many messages—my mom swinging between anger and begging, and my dad expressing deep regret. The family is divided: most support me, but my mom’s sisters criticize me for not telling her about the wedding, saying she’s heartbroken for missing it.