Dead at Heart (Ariel and Jayson) novel Chapter 879

Janice hadn't expected to hear that voice at that moment.

Her gaze had been fixed on the man she hired to play along with her act. He had just stood up and taken a step forward when suddenly, that familiar voice rang out. Her heart skipped a beat.

She fought to keep her expression neutral, though shock and bewilderment surged inside her.

Turning toward the sound, Janice met Chad's calm, steady eyes.

One hand in his pocket, dressed in a sharp black suit, Chad drew every gaze in the room as he walked toward her.

On stage, Janice looked fragile and alone, but his presence shifted the atmosphere instantly.

Everything was happening so fast that most of the guests were still processing what Chad had said earlier. Ariel was the only exception. Her eyes widened in surprise, confusion flickering across her face. She had never realized Chad harbored feelings for Janice.

Beside her, Jayson crossed his legs casually. He took Ariel's hand, rubbing it gently, utterly unshaken.

"Those two… when did they…" Ariel was still reeling from shock.

Jayson tilted his head and looked at her. "Why did you think Mr. Chad mentioned Mr. Carlos nagged him about settling down right after Janice said she wouldn't marry Wade?"

Once Jayson delivered that insightful remark, everything clicked for Ariel. She turned her gaze back to the stage, joining the rest of the crowd.

By then, Chad had reached Janice.

Curiously, his suit matched her dress perfectly, as if they were the true bride and groom.

Janice remained slightly stunned. She stared, dazed, at the person standing next to her.

Chad lowered his eyes, gently taking her wrist. He felt her trembling.

Though she appeared composed, he knew how helpless and nervous she must have felt, enduring the scorn of the crowd alone. He looked at her briefly, then turned to face everyone.

"I'm sure most of you can see what's really happening today. In arranged marriages, the young rarely have a voice. Mr. Garner didn't show up for his own wedding. He didn't want to marry, yet he left Janice to face the humiliation by herself.

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