The Flower That Grew from Ashes novel Chapter 95

At 11:30 AM, against the backdrop of a swelling, majestic orchestral symphony, the completely absurd "makeup wedding" officially began.

The brilliant chandeliers in the banquet hall dimmed until only a single, dramatic spotlight illuminated the center of the stage.

The MC, a highly recognizable anchor from Cresthaven's premier broadcasting network, stepped up to the microphone.

Using a tone that masterfully blended profound grief with soaring warmth, he began to spin a beautifully orchestrated lie.

"Three years ago, a hero of Cresthaven, Elias Lehman, tragically sacrificed his life in the line of duty, giving everything to protect innocent lives and secure our future."

"His departure was so devastatingly sudden that he never even had the chance to properly say goodbye to his beautiful new bride."

"And yet, his wife—the esteemed leading lady of the Lehman family, Ms. Clarissa Sherwood—rose from the ashes of her unbearable grief to make a decision that has moved us all to tears."

"She chose to stand strong. To protect her husband's legacy, and to ensure the Lehman family bloodline would endure."

"Today, we gather here not just to rectify the tragic absence of the wedding they never got to have, but to bear witness to a great, transcendent love that has conquered death itself!"

The MC's delivery was heart-wrenching and dangerously persuasive.

The guests in the audience were visibly moved; several of the more emotional socialites were already dabbing their eyes with expensive lace handkerchiefs.

Sitting quietly at the second table, Annelise's face was a perfect mask of appropriate, tearful tragedy.

But as she watched the spectacle unfold, all she felt was that she was witnessing a brilliantly executed, sickening theatrical performance.

As the MC concluded his speech, the massive LED screens behind the stage flared to life, playing a high-budget, emotionally manipulative tribute video.

It featured stunning photographs of Elias from before his alleged death.

There were shots of him looking sharp and authoritative in tailored suits, commanding attention in boardrooms.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify