CHAPTER 1: The Name That Stopped the Room
The old man wiped a trace of blood from the corner of his mouth.
For a moment, no one moved.
Thenâ
Two men in black suits stepped forward from opposite sides of the ballroom. Their movements were sharp, precise⊠controlled.
Security.
But not the kind hired for weddings.
They didnât look at the groom.
They went straight to the old man.
âSir⊠are you alright?â one of them asked, his voice tight with concern.
The room shifted.
The groom frowned. âWhat is this? Get him out of hereââ
The second guard turned, his eyes cold as steel.
âWatch your tone.â
The groom blinked, stunned. âExcuse me?â
Then it happened.
Both guards straightened instantly.
âMr. Chairman,â they said in unison.
Silence.
Absolute silence.
The brideâs bouquet slipped from her fingers.
Guests froze mid-breath.
The groom laughedâtoo loudly, too quickly. âChairman? Him?â He pointed. âHeâs a gardener!â
The old man slowly stood to his full height.
And suddenly⊠he didnât look small anymore.
He looked powerful.
Commanding.
Unshaken.
âI was placing the roses,â the old man said calmly. âFor my daughterâs wedding.â
The groomâs smile cracked.
ââŠyour daughter?â
The old man turned his gazeâstraight toward the bride.
Tears were already forming in her eyes.
âEmily,â he said softly.
The room gasped.
May you like
The bride trembled.
âDadâŠ?â
