Arthur searched the hall, checking every corner. Then he walked to the bridal dressing room and pushed the door open. It was empty.
He dialed Lydia's number, but the call wouldn't connect. He tried again. This time, her phone was switched off.
His expression finally changed. He no longer just looked confused. He looked utterly lost, in a way he never had before.
At some point, Lydia's parents had arrived too. Her mother began looking for her as soon as she entered.
"Where's Lydia? Isn't she here yet?"
Her father frowned, his voice turning stern.
"That girl always lets us down when it matters."
Her mother agreed, "Exactly. She can't even take her own wedding seriously. When she comes back, I'm going to have a long talk with her."
Arthur didn't respond. He turned toward the door.
"I
