Chapter 241

Victoria's face darkened at the question.

"Mrs. Whitmore went to find Nathaniel," she answered. An inexplicable dread settled in her stomach.

Beatrice returned moments later, confusion written across her features. "How strange. Nathaniel isn't answering his phone, and Robert isn't responding either."

Penelope blurted out, "On such a crucial day, do you think Nathaniel might be getting cold feet about the wedding?"

The words "cold feet" made Victoria visibly tense.

Her fingers trembled as she dialed Nathaniel's number, only to be met with endless ringing. A wave of panic crashed over her.

"That's impossible. Nathaniel was right here minutes ago. He wouldn't just leave without explanation. Something must have happened."

Beatrice attempted to ease the tension. "I'm sure Nathaniel's just caught up in something urgent. He was with me not long ago."

Penelope, realizing her gaffe, quickly added, "Yes, Nathaniel's been swamped lately. Probably some last-minute business delay. Should we wait a bit longer?"

Victoria forced a smile. "Please, everyone take your seats. I need to freshen up my makeup."

Excusing herself, Victoria pulled Gregory aside. "Find Nathaniel immediately. This venue isn't that large."

"Right away, miss."

Victoria stood frozen in place, her left eyelid twitching uncontrollably.

Alexander approached with a frown. "Where's Nathaniel?"

"I've sent Gregory to look for him. Given the venue's size, we should have news soon."

Alexander's frown deepened.

"But this is your engagement day. No matter how busy Nathaniel is, disappearing without explanation is unacceptable," he snapped.

"Alexander, Nathaniel has important responsibilities. I understand his position," Victoria countered.

He sighed. "If that's how you feel, I won't interfere."

Alexander couldn't fathom why Victoria tolerated Nathaniel's behavior.

Unbeknownst to her, Nathaniel still carried a torch for Evelyn.

Returning to his seat, Alexander whispered to Julian, "Where's Evelyn? Why haven't I seen her?"

"I'll check."

Julian spotted Jonathan Reeves, Evelyn's studio manager who was also attending.

Approaching him, Julian asked, "Jonathan, might I have a word?"

"Of course."

Jonathan was puzzled. Wasn't Julian Evelyn's brother? Why was he here at Victoria's engagement, seated with the family?

"Has Evelyn not arrived?" Julian inquired.

"She was supposed to be here hours ago. I've tried calling and messaging, but her phone's completely dead now," Jonathan replied, irritation evident.

Evelyn's absence as lead designer was causing professional embarrassment.

Julian immediately tried Evelyn's number, confirming it was switched off.

Something was wrong. Evelyn never turned off her phone.

"Did Evelyn mention any issues this morning?" Julian pressed.

"Initially yes. She texted about a minor delay but promised to arrive soon. That was hours ago with no update since."

Julian's unease grew. Evelyn wouldn't vanish without reason.

Frowning, he asked, "What exactly did Evelyn say about the delay earlier?"