Chapter 10

The next day, Saturday.

The grand ballroom of the Drake Hotel was a sea of white orchids and crystal chandeliers. Three hundred guests sat in gilded chairs under the soft, glittering lights.

Elliott stood near the entrance in his custom tuxedo, holding a glass of champagne he hadn't touched, his eyes darting to his watch every few seconds.

9:00 AM. The bridal suite was empty.

9:30 AM. My phone went straight to voicemail.

10:00 AM. He sent his assistant to my apartment.

A few minutes later, a text popped up from the assistant:

"Elliott, the apartment is completely cleared out. There's nothing here but the wedding dress box and a note."

Elliott stared at the screen, the easy smile slowly draining from his face.

Behind him, the soft murmur of three hundred high-society guests began to grow louder.

Victoria hurried over, her face pale with fury under her heavy makeup. She hissed in a harsh whisper: "Where is she? Where is the bride?!"