Chapter 1196

Chapter 1196:

Still, we played our parts. Calm. Polished. Pretending to prepare for a joyous occasion, all while tightening the noose. Every element of the wedding was crafted with care—not just to lure our enemy into the trap, but to give Alice the celebration she deserved. Real or not, it would be beautiful.

One afternoon, I was in the estate’s grand hall with a group of servants, arranging the space for the ceremony. The hall shimmered with festivity. Tables were dressed in fine linens, topped with ornate floral displays and delicate confections. The scent of fresh blooms mingled with warm vanilla, creating a gentle, nostalgic sweetness in the air.

I stood at the center, scanning every detail with sharp eyes. No misstep could be afforded—not in this moment. Alice walked in and sighed resignedly at the sight before her.

“A simple setup would have been enough. Why go through all this trouble?”

I turned to spot her standing in the doorway, watching the room with a faint smile.

“Alice, this is the most important day of your life. Even if it’s all a ruse… we won’t treat it like one.”

I stepped forward, gently taking her arm, smiling up at her. Her eyes glistened, tears threatening to spill. She gripped my hand tightly, her voice catching.

“Makenna, to have a friend like you… I’m so lucky.”

I squeezed her hand in return, warmth blooming in my chest. “And I’m lucky to have you, Alice. Whatever comes, we face it side by side.”

She couldn’t hold back anymore. The tears fell—but with them came a soft, relieved smile.

I brushed her cheek gently, wiping away the tears with my thumb. “No more crying,” I whispered. “You’re marrying Amon in a few days. Let yourself be happy.”

She nodded, just about to speak, when movement at the edge of my vision caught my attention. My gaze snapped toward the figure creeping along the far end of the hall.

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Manley. Dayton’s butler.

He was hunched over, eyes shifting about with barely disguised unease.

Something prickled at the edge of my mind. I straightened, composing myself, and called out, “Manley? Do you need something?”

He froze mid-step. For a second, his eyes flashed with panic before he quickly dipped his head and flashed a too-quick smile.

“Miss Dunn, I heard about the wedding preparations and thought perhaps I could offer some assistance.”

I didn’t return the smile. My eyes stayed locked on him, analyzing everything—his stiff shoulders, his deflective gaze, the way he fidgeted ever so slightly.

“I appreciate the offer,” I said smoothly, “but everything is already handled. You can return to your duties.”

There was a beat of silence, like he hadn’t expected to be dismissed.

“Very well, Miss Dunn,” he muttered, bowing slightly before turning and walking off—faster than he’d arrived.

I watched him until he disappeared around the corner, my frown deepening.

When I turned back, Alice and I exchanged a look. And without needing to say anything else, we spoke at once.

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