Chapter 21 The wedding crash
Behind the Billionaire's Mask!
Chapter 20
Victoria's POV
"What are you doing here?" Caleb appeared suddenly in front of me, causing me to halt just in time to avoid a collision. The tension in the air was palpable, thick enough to cut with a knife.
"And why do you care?" I shot back, my eyes narrowing into a death glare. Every part of me wanted to push past him, but he stood there, a wall I couldn't breach.
"It's my wedding, so I should know why you are here," he replied, annoyance coating his words like a bitter aftertaste.
I gritted my teeth, irritation bubbling beneath the surface. All I wanted was to catch a glimpse of Julian. Ever since I had arrived, my focus had been solely on him. When I saw him slip into the restroom, I seized the moment to nudge a guy toward Sophie, noting how his eyes lingered on her.
I had expertly hidden myself away, determined not to draw attention. But then I saw Julian, the way he pulled Sophie out of the venue. Just when I thought I could follow, Caleb appeared, blocking my escape.
"Cat got your tongue?" he sneered, his eyes still fixed on me with disdain.
"I was just about to leave anyway," I retorted, trying to sidestep him. But he moved in front of me again, his body a stubborn barrier.
Holy shit! I couldn’t risk being seen by any of the reporters milling about. I knew Caleb was relentless; I needed a lie, and I needed it fast.
"A friend invited me," I declared, hoping to deflect his scrutiny.
"And who is this friend?" His piercing gaze bore into me, unyielding.
"Your bride's friend invited me," I managed, taking a step back. But he grabbed my arm, pulling me back to face him.
Why did it feel like he was deliberately stalling me, keeping me from reaching Julian?
"What's the friend's name?" he pressed, his tone hardening.
"Am I not free to get invited to a wedding?" I shot back, my voice laced with defiance.
"No, you aren't. After what you did to my friend, you shouldn't have dared to show your face," he spat, disgust etched across his features.
"And I did. What will you do about it? I'm here to get back what belongs to me—Julian is mine. Mine alone!" My voice rose, the desperation seeping through.
"Julian was never yours..." Caleb began, but just then, a voice broke through the crowd.
"Caleb!" An older man called out, likely his father or father-in-law—someone important. I didn't care who he was.
"I'll be right there, sir!" Caleb shouted back, but his focus returned to me, fierce as ever. "You will regret ever coming back," he hissed, venom dripping from his words before he stormed off.
Disgusted and frustrated, I turned away, heading outside. The cool air hit my face, a stark contrast to the heated confrontation inside. I scanned the parking lot for any sign of Julian, but he was nowhere to be found.
If he’s gone because of Caleb, I swear I will kill him, I thought, my anger bubbling beneath the surface. Just then, Jaxon joined me, his expression serious.
"Whose car is Julian's?" I asked, pointing at the lineup of vehicles parked haphazardly.
"He wouldn't have parked here. He would have parked in the VIP spot," Jaxon replied, gesturing for me to follow him.
We made our way toward the VIP area, my heart pounding with hope and anxiety. But just as we approached, Jaxon stopped me in my tracks.
"What?" I snapped, irritation flaring.
He nodded subtly, and I followed his gaze. My heart sank as I saw Julian and Sophie locked in a kiss, oblivious to everything around them. Why was he kissing her? Just moments ago, he had found her laughing with another guy, and now this?
I felt a mix of betrayal and rage swell inside me, propelling me forward. I was ready to confront them, but Jaxon held me back.
“He’ll know you followed him, and that could ruin your chances of getting him back,” he cautioned, his voice low and steady.
As much as I hated to admit it, he was right. I couldn’t let my emotions dictate my actions. I needed to think this through.
Reluctantly, I watched as Julian and Sophie climbed into their car and drove off, leaving me standing there, a storm of confusion and hurt swirling inside. The evening felt colder, the chill seeping into my bones, and I knew I had to regroup and plan my next move carefully. This wasn’t over—not by a long shot.
I turned to Jaxon, desperation creeping into my voice. "What about Alex? Did he get the documents and pictures?"
"Yes, but there hasn't been any move from his side," Jaxon replied, his tone measured.
I let out a frustrated sigh. "No wonder things are stalled. He lives like that—always dragging his feet. Why do I always have to do everything myself to get things done properly?" I crossed my arms, trying to ward off the chill, but also the growing annoyance that simmered in me.
Jaxon remained silent, his expression thoughtful. He knew I was right, but he also understood that there were limits to what we could push for without ruffling too many feathers. I would not let Julian slip through my fingers without a fight.
"I can’t just sit here and wait for him to decide to act," I continued, pacing slightly as my mind raced. "Tomorrow, I will have to meet him myself."
I turned toward my car, the sleek vehicle a temporary refuge from the turmoil swirling inside me. The engine’s warmth would be a welcome relief.
I slid into the back seat of the car, the leather cool against my skin. I took a moment to breathe, trying to calm myself of the emotions that threatened to consume me. The faint hum of the engine provided a soothing backdrop as I gathered my thoughts.
Jaxon started the car and pulled out of the parking lot, the lights of the venue fading in the rearview mirror. Each passing moment felt charged with anticipation, and I could feel my resolve strengthening.
When we arrived at my building, I noticed a man standing outside, his posture alert as he opened the door for me. I stepped out, but as I raised my head, I was met with a sight that sent my heart racing—a shock of disbelief coursed through me.
What was he doing here?
“Are you surprised to see me?” He asked, his voice husky and low, sending a shiver down my spine. The familiar warmth of his presence flooded my senses, but confusion quickly followed.
"Ethan." I managed to stammer.