?Chapter 1155:


    After Steven left, William walked to the window and looked out toward the Carter estate, glowing under the night sky. His bride-to-be was there, getting ready for their big day.


    He held the wedding ring in his hand, moonlight glinting off it. “No matter what happens,” he whispered, “I’ll keep you safe.”


    This was the day he’d been waiting for—everything had to be wless.


    He pulled out his phone and called Luca. “Keep an eye on Nina tomorrow. If she tries anything, stop her immediately.”


    “Got it,” Luca said. Then, with a chuckle, he added, “And hey, congrats, boss.”


    William’s shoulders eased a little. “Thanks.”


    The next morning, sunlight streamed through the lounge curtains, catching the shimmer of Ste’s gown.


    She sat at the vanity while the makeup artist added the finishing touches. In the mirror, she looked radiant—like a goddess about to step into her own fairytale.


    “Ms. Russell, you look absolutely stunning,” the artist said, beaming. “Prettiest bride I’ve ever worked on.”


    Ste smiled softly. “Thank you.” She gave herself onest look, satisfied.


    Just then, William stepped in wearing a tailored tux, every bit the handsome groom.


    He nodded to the artist, who quickly slipped out. Then he reached for Ste’s hand, his eyes full of warmth. “Ste,” he said softly, “you look absolutely stunning.”


    It was the first time he’d seen her in her wedding dress.


    Ste raised an eyebrow, teasing. “And you’re not looking too bad yourself.”


    He chuckled, then his tone turned serious. “I doubled the security, but stay alert, okay? I don’t want any surprises.”


    He didn’t mention Nina, but Ste knew exactly who he meant.


    “Don’t worry,” she said with a small nod. “I’ll keep my eyes open.” She squeezed his hand, feeling his warmth calm her nerves. “With you here, I’m not scared of anything.”


    William kissed her forehead. “Luca’s outside. Call him if anything feels off.”


    When he left, Ste looked back at her reflection, her smile fading just a little. She drew a slow, steady breath, pushing down the lingering unease.


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    The wedding was set to begin at six that evening, and guests were already pouring into the grand estate.


    From inside the lounge, Ste could hear faint music and bursts ofughter drifting in from the garden. She drew in a deep breath, silently reminding herself to stayposed and savor the moment she had waited so long for.


    Just after four, the door swung open and William hurried in, looking flustered—almost restless.


    Running a hand through his hair, he sighed in frustration. “Ste, the wedding ring isn’t with me. I asked Steven to bring it, but he forgot. It’s still in the studio downtown. I’ll have to go get it myself. It won’t take more than forty minutes.”


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