The grand hall thrummed with anticipation, a soft glow from the chandeliers bathing the crowd in golden light. Guests sipped their drinks, murmuring excitedly as they waited for the stage to come alive with the bride's entrance. The music had shifted to a lively tune, and the announcer's playful Q&A with Daniel, the groom, kept the mood festive, but a ripple of curiosity passed through the room.
Sara's absence stretched on, and whispers of "Where is she?" began to weave through the crowd. Aeri, standing near the center in her shimmering light blue dress, felt a growing unease. For too long for Ezra and Sara to be gone. Her brow furrowed, worry tightening her chest.
"It's been too long," Aeri muttered, her voice barely audible over the hum of the hall. She glanced at the dim hallway where Ezra had disappeared to meet Sara, her heart thudding with a mix of concern and suspicion.
