Chapter 6 - THE ALTAR
The string quartet began to play. The guests—over three hundred of Charleston's wealthy elite, business partners, and socialites—took their seats.
Richard stood at the altar, looking like the king of the world. Chloe marched down the aisle in a dress that probably cost more than a luxury car, smiling smugly at the crowd.
When she reached the altar, the officiant cleared his throat.
"Before we begin," the officiant announced, adjusting his microphone, "The groom has informed me that a special family blessing is to be bestowed today. A gift from the bride's new step-daughters."
Richard looked confused. Chloe frowned.
From the front row, little Lily stood up. She walked up the marble steps, holding the red wax-sealed envelope Clara had left in the velvet pouch. She handed it directly to the officiant.
"My mommy wanted Richard to have this," Lily said loudly into the microphone.
May you like
Richard’s face drained of color. "Wait, Henry, what is this? Where are the trust papers?"
"Open it," I said from the front row, my voice echoing across the silent courtyard.
