Justin's body trembled considerably.
He had allowed his emotions to get the better of him a moment ago, and now, hearing Artemis' assessment, he realized he had acted impulsively.
Approaching Veronique right now would only put her in a precarious situation.
He was, after all, the groom of the grand wedding. If he were to engage with another woman on his wedding day, it would undoubtedly draw intense public criticism.
His personal reputation didn't concern him, but he couldn't allow Veronique to suffer because of him.
Furthermore, Veronique was believed to be “dead” at this moment. Until he found the right opportunity for her to re-emerge into the world, he couldn't expose her to the public eye.
The power of public opinion was formidable. The Revelle family had declared Veronique dead to the world.
If she were to resurface, she would face endless scrutiny and ridicule. Those who had initially sympathized with her would come to believe she was manipulating their emotions.
Once the public began to make a fuss, it might be challenging for her to maintain her standing in Dellmoor.
“So, what should I do now? I promised Veronique to resolve this love triangle, but I never anticipated Scarlett's cunning tactics. I have no choice but to compromise. Today's wedding banquet was broadcast live throughout the city, orchestrated by Scarlett with my consent. Veronique probably learned about it immediately. If I do nothing, she will be left with a misunderstanding. Her health hasn't fully recovered yet. If there's more turmoil, I fear that she'd—”
“Veronique already knows,” Bailey interjected. “She received a message from the kidnapper while Scarlett was walking the red carpet. There are things I'd rather not have told you, but I must. Veronique is asking you to sacrifice yourself to protect Zephyr.”
Stumbling backward a few steps, Justin asked with a trembling voice, “Is she... really willing to sacrifice me to protect Zephyr?”
Bailey glared at him, grinding her teeth as she scolded him fiercely, “She's Zephyr's mother. Shouldn't she make that choice? You're usually a composed person, so why do you falter at critical moments? Is this what you should be focusing on? No, it's not. I want to make it clear that Veronique understands your situation, but when a child is in danger, your first instinct is to protect that child. This also demonstrates her understanding and willingness not to hold you responsible for this choice. You don't need to feel guilty, and you don't need to lose your composure, understand?”
Justin understood. As long as Veronique didn't misconstrue his actions and wasn't angry with him, he could regain his composure and manage the situation. “I understand. I won't seek out Veronique. I'll return to the banquet hall and try to hold Scarlett back.”
Bailey's expression softened slightly, and she nodded. “Yes, go back to the banquet hall and stall Scarlett. As for Zephyr, you don't need to worry. Artemis and I are on our way to rescue him. If we can't save him, your presence won't make a difference.”
Taking a deep breath, Justin managed to suppress his emotional turmoil. He bowed to the two of them. “I'm relying on both of you.”
Artemis huffed, “And while you're at it, keep Raiden in check. Don't let him get in our way or annoy me.”
As soon as he finished speaking, he took Bailey's hand and headed for the elevator.
Justin turned slowly, his eyes fixed on the entrance to the banquet hall. Even if he couldn't bring Scarlett down today, he wouldn't make her life easy.
Inside the bride's lounge, Scarlett, assisted by Olivia, changed out of her wedding gown and into a traditional Chanaean dress, which would be suitable for the wedding banquet that followed the ceremony.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Suddenly There Are Three (Bailey and Artemis)