Chapter 257

The murmurs spread like wildfire through the grand ballroom.

The flustered priest cleared his throat. "True love withstands all trials. Let's welcome the bride again!"

Music swelled through the venue once more. When it faded, Olivia Sinclair remained conspicuously absent.

Both families descended into panic. Staff scrambled in every direction while guests exchanged speculative glances. The meticulously planned event dissolved into bedlam.

Vivian Lockhart nudged Ethan Blackwood's arm. "Did you orchestrate this?" she whispered. "Where did you stash her?"

Ethan's eyes turned glacial. "Careful, or you'll lose that sharp tongue of yours."

Vivian pressed her lips together. 'Touchy much? Someone's defensive.'

Nathan Prescott moved through the crowd like a man possessed. "Remain calm, everyone! Dominic and Olivia are soulmates—this must be part of their grand romantic gesture!"

The longtime admirer had dedicated months to perfecting this wedding. His devotion to Olivia bordered on religious fervor.

Dominic Harrington stood motionless at the altar, his expression unreadable. The groom's eerie composure contrasted sharply with the surrounding chaos.

"Miss Sinclair has vanished!" A staff member burst in breathlessly. "Only her wedding gown remains in the bridal suite!"

Nathan seized the messenger's collar. "Lies! Olivia would never abandon her own wedding!"

"See for yourself!" the employee gasped.

Nathan whirled toward Dominic. "This is another test! Help me find her!"

Dominic remained rooted in place. "She's made her choice clear. I won't force her hand."

"Have you lost your mind? After everything you've endured together?" Nathan's voice cracked.

Dominic merely shrugged. "She's a grown woman capable of her own decisions."

Turning to the murmuring crowd, Dominic projected his voice. "The bride has evidently reconsidered. Please accept the Harrington family's deepest apologies. Consider this an impromptu celebration—enjoy the hospitality."

The Harringtons bowed stiffly, their humiliation palpable beneath practiced smiles.

Just as the tension began to dissipate, a voice cut through the crowd. "This wasn't Olivia's choice! Someone took her!"