Chapter 248

All eyes turned to Nathaniel Blackwood, disbelief evident on every face. The complicated history between these three was practically public knowledge.

That Nathaniel even showed up at the wedding was shocking enough. Now he was participating in the reception games? People were starting to think he might be too forgiving for his own good.

Nathaniel pressed his lips into a thin line, standing rigidly silent. His body language screamed refusal.

The air grew thick with tension, the awkwardness almost palpable.

Seeing things were about to derail, Oliver Prescott started sweating bullets. "Nate, we know this is asking too much..."

"But we're out of options. Didn't Victoria say she feels guilty about what happened? She wants your blessing before she'll open that door. Just... give her this one thing?"

Dominic Harrington scowled. "Oliver, back off. Nate shouldn't have to do this at all!"

Before Oliver could argue, Nathaniel cut in sharply. "It's fine. If this is what it takes."

He stepped forward and knocked, his expression tight. "Victoria, open up. I've moved on. I genuinely wish you and Dom happiness."

A soft, trembling voice finally responded from behind the door. "Nate... Dom and I... we're so sorry. We've waited so long to hear you say that... Thank you..."

The door cracked open slightly.

The groomsmen immediately surged forward while the bridesmaids put up a spirited defense.

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The room erupted into cheerful chaos once more.

Nathaniel stood apart from the crowd, his tall frame rigid as he observed the scene. The sadness in his eyes was unmistakable.

Isabella Lockhart had also positioned herself at the periphery for safety.

She stole a glance at Nathaniel and felt her heart clench at his devastated expression.

'Damn, this has to be killing him.'

'His first love ends up with his best friend, and now he has to play along? Poor Blackwood...'

'He never got over Sinclair, did he?'

'God, watching your soulmate marry someone else must be torture.'

As Dominic finally reached his bride, the crowd erupted in cheers.

"Kiss! Kiss! Kiss!"

Isabella glanced back at Nathaniel, noting how his jaw tightened further.

'This is pure agony for him.' She found herself moving toward him without thinking, slipping her hand into his.

Nathaniel startled, turning to her with utter confusion.

Isabella gave him a conspiratorial wink. "Don't thank me. Just repaying you for those macarons. Today, you won't look pathetic with me by your side."

His frown deepened. 'What the hell is she talking about?'

Seeing his bewilderment, Isabella rose on her toes to whisper, "I know you're still in love with Victoria. Watching her marry someone else must be hell." 'That forced congratulations? Brutal. No wonder you're miserable.'