Smiles for the Cameras
Chapter 05 - Smiles for the Cameras
By eight o'clock, the hotel had become a machine built around the wedding. Florists carried white roses through the lobby. Photographers tested lights. Guests posted smiling messages online. Claire returned through the front entrance with her cardigan folded over one arm and a calm expression she did not feel.
Vanessa rushed toward her. "Where have you been? We were worried."
Claire studied the face she had known for twelve years. Vanessa's concern was almost perfect, but her eyes flicked briefly toward Ethan, as if checking whether their plan remained safe.
"I needed air," Claire said. "Today is overwhelming."
Vanessa hugged her. Claire let her.
During hair and makeup, the bridesmaids laughed, shared old stories, and played music. Vanessa sat beside Claire and spoke about loyalty, destiny, and the importance of choosing people who would always stand by you. Claire wondered how many lies a person could say before hearing the emptiness in her own voice.
Across the hotel, Daniel worked with Samuel to secure copies of the financial records. Miriam arranged for two independent board members to attend the reception. She also contacted the venue's audiovisual manager, who had once worked for Bennett House and still remembered Claire's father with affection.
At ten-thirty, Ethan entered the bridal suite carrying a white box tied with gold ribbon. Tradition said he should not see Claire before the ceremony, but Ethan had never cared much for traditions that did not benefit him.
Inside the box was a diamond bracelet.
"For my wife," he said softly. "And for the future we are building."
Claire looked into his eyes. She wanted to ask whether any part of him had loved her. Instead, she fastened the bracelet and smiled.
"There is some paperwork after the ceremony," Ethan added casually. "The hotel needs signatures for the honeymoon transfer and a few corporate formalities. Nothing complicated."
"Of course," Claire replied.
Relief crossed his face so quickly that another person might have missed it.
After he left, Claire opened her mother's old sewing kit and removed a tiny silver button. Daniel had placed a wireless microphone inside it. She attached it beneath the lace at her waist.
Vanessa watched from the mirror. "Nervous?"
Claire met her gaze in the reflection.
May you like
"Not anymore," she said.
Outside, bells began to ring, announcing that the ceremony would start in one hour.
