But inside, fury ignited.
They knew where she was.
The facade was cracking.
And tomorrow’s rehearsal dinner wasn’t just a ceremony, it was the perfect stage for whatever came next.
....................
Austin sat in his dim office, files from his father’s safe spread across the desk—receipts, coded transfers, a shipment manifest labeled "experimental compounds." His parents had always been cold, controlling. Now he saw the blood behind the polish.
Selene was safe, hidden far away, but every hour felt borrowed. The wedding illusion had to be held, rehearsal tomorrow, ceremony soon—while he hunted for the truth.
A knock. Diana entered, lavender dress clinging softly, holding invitation proofs. She placed them down, lingering at the desk's edge.
“The guest list is locked,” she s
