Chapter 22 Chapter 22 The Lancaster gala proceeded as planned . Given the Lancasters status , the event should have drawn only family and close friends . No one expected Alaric Crawford to appear . Crawford , what an honor ! We never dreamed youd attend our humble gathering Lancaster St. was overwhelmed theyd never imagined attracting such a powerful figure . My wife was interested , so I came to see what amuses her . Alarics face remained impassive . Crawford ! Where is she ? I must have my children greet her properly . Lancasters politeness couldnt mask his excitement . Whatever brought Crawford here held immense significance . Lancaster ignored other guests to focus on Alaric , describing their business ventures and the evenings true purpose . My youngest son fell for the Welch girl . Though we cant compare to Crawford Industries , we believe in proper procedure . Hence this engagement ceremony making things official . Alaric responded minimally until the lights dimmed , focusing on the stage . His attention sharpened. Despite being just an engagement , the couple wore formal attire . James Lancaster in black , Heather Welch in white Alarics first time seeing her in a wedding dress . His gaze locked on the figure that haunted his dreams . Welcome , everyone ! Were gathered to announce something special my engagement to Heather Welch ! James beamed , lifting Heathers hand to display a sparkling ring . Applause erupted . Lancaster Sr. beamed with pride . Only Alaric remained motionless , eyes fixed on Heather . Crawford , has your wife not arrived ? Lancaster noticed Alarics odd mood . Without looking away from Heather , Alaric murmured , Shes here . Shes beautiful . 80.8 % Chapter 22 He stood , catching Heathers attention . Her smile faltered . She couldnt believe it . After her cruel words , hed still come to her engagement no less . Their eyes met across the crowd , speaking volumes in silence . Alarics heart raced somehow , he knew Hestia still loved him , even as Heather Welch . Heather realized his intentions . Panic crossed her face as she watched him approach . Thank you all for your blessings . Surely no one objects to our happiness ? James joked . The crowd laughed , but Alarics firm voice cut through . I object . Hed reached the stage , facing Heather . Mr … Crawford ? James had heard of Crawford Industries but couldnt fathom this interruption . Alaric ignored him , focused solely on Heather . His voice softened . Hestia no , Heather come with me . I love you . Like their first confession years ago , he watched her nervously , devotedly , seeing only her . Alaric , why dont you understand ? I dont love you anymore . Five-year-old Annie, who can understand animals, saved Landon Hawthorne, a wealthy businessman, from suicide. Now she's his whole world and he's her legal cheat-code against every villain fate throws ...