Evelyn's POV
Scene Three — Questions Begin
I had no idea how much time had passed.
One conversation blended into another until the ballroom itself seemed to settle into a comfortable rhythm, and for a while I almost convinced myself that Victor's plan might actually work.
Then everything changed.
Not dramatically.
Not all at once.
It began with a single question.
I had just finished speaking with an elderly couple when I noticed a familiar guest approach my father with an easy smile.
He congratulated him once again before casually looking around the ballroom.
"Richard..."
He lifted his glass slightly.
"I haven't had the chance to congratulate Miranda again."
He laughed softly.
"Where's the bride-to-be hiding?"
I instinctively looked toward my father.
His smile never changed.
"She's taking a short break."
The answer came so naturally that I almost believed it myself.
"It's been an emotional evening."
"I'm sure she'll be back before long."
