Tricked Into the Bridal Party

Caleb was leaning against the kitchen counter, scrolling through his phone, when Becca burst in. Her face was streaked with tears, and she looked on the verge of full-blown panic.

“I don’t know what to do!” she cried, grabbing his arm. “My Maid of Honor just dropped out!”

Caleb set his phone down, startled by the outburst. “Okay, uh… why not just have one of the bridesmaids take over? They’re all already dressed and ready, right?”

Becca shook her head quickly, her hands trembling. “It’s not that simple. They’re all amazing, but…I wanted someone special to be by my side.” Her voice cracked as her tear-filled eyes locked onto his, her expression pleading.

Her gaze lingered, heavy with unspoken intent. Caleb blinked, his stomach twisting as he started to piece it together.

He sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “Fine,” he muttered reluctantly. “Just tell me what you need me to do.”

Becca’s face lit up instantly, her tears vanishing as though they’d never existed. “You have no idea how much this means to me,” she said, clasping his arm tightly and dragging him out of the kitchen.

The bridal suite was a whirlwind of motion as Caleb was pushed into a chair. Warm wax was quickly smoothed onto his arms, and before he could react, the first strip was ripped away with a sharp tug, making him flinch. The process was methodical and relentless, leaving his arms, legs, and chest completely smooth.

Next, his eyebrows were reshaped with a few swift tugs of tweezers before extensions were clipped into his hair. His scruffy, uneven locks were transformed into long, silky strands that the team pinned into a polished updo. A few delicate red flowers were added for a final, feminine touch that matched the bridal theme perfectly.

Makeup came next, applied with careful precision. Foundation, contour, and blush softened his features, while bold eyeliner and false lashes made his eyes stand out dramatically. His lips were painted a deep berry red, completing the look. Meanwhile, a stylist applied nail extensions, transforming his short nails into long, almond-shaped tips painted in a glossy burgundy to match the dress.

Finally, the dress came out. Caleb froze as the shimmering burgundy gown was unzipped from its garment bag. The tight, figure-hugging material was adorned with intricate rosettes and flared dramatically at the knees.

He struggled as the dress was slipped over his head and zipped up, the snug fit leaving no room for movement. Padding and shapewear sculpted his body, giving him curves he didn’t have, while the padded bra created a full, feminine chest that made him blush.

The heels were the final touch—delicate stilettos that wobbled dangerously with every step he took. Before he knew it, he was being rushed out of the suite, his legs trembling as he tried to stay upright.

The music swelled, and Caleb took a shaky breath, teetering in the towering heels. Between the makeup, the styled hair, and the figure-hugging dress, he barely recognized himself. At least, he thought, no one else would either.

As he stepped forward, the tight gown clung to him, restricting his movements. Each step in the heels felt like a test of balance, his legs trembling with every mincing stride. The groomsman beside him—broad-shouldered and towering over him—offered his arm. Though it made his cheeks burn, Caleb gratefully clung to the steady, firm support as they made their way down the aisle together.

When they reached the altar, Caleb carefully let go of the groomsman’s arm and took his place at the front. His feet ached in the unforgiving heels, but he tried to stand as still and composed as possible. The bridesmaids followed behind, filing into their positions. Caleb couldn’t help but notice their giggles, their eyes darting toward him as they covered their mouths to stifle their laughter.

Then he saw her. The original Maid of Honor, perfectly dressed, her hair and makeup flawless, standing at the end of the line. Her sly smirk made Caleb’s stomach drop.

Before he could process the realization, the music changed. Everyone turned toward the back of the aisle as Becca made her grand entrance, radiant and glowing in her wedding gown. Caleb’s eyes darted to her as she met his gaze, her lips curling into a sly, knowing grin as she stepped forward.

His face burned as the weight of it all sank in. She’d planned every detail, every step, and now here he was—exactly where she wanted him.