Chapter 22 As planned, Samantha told Tristan that there was news about Meredith. He instantly believed her, his voice trembling with urgency. 'Where is she? Take me to her-now!" Samantha sighed, feigning helplessness. 'The exact location isn't clear. All we know is that she's abroad. But son, she's been keeping an eye on your every move." Really? I knew it-she still couldn't let me go!" The corners of Tristan's lips curved upward with smug relief. Samantha pressed on. "But listen, unless you marry Hillary as soon as possible, she won't show erself. No woman can stand watching the man she loves wed another. She will appear." Fine, then tomorrow! We'll have the wedding tomorrow!" he quickly restrained his hand before his excitement could run wild. Don't be hasty. A wedding must be proper, not rushed. If it looks careless, people will laugh a s-and Meredith won't be so easily fooled. The soonest is next week." Alright. I'll do whatever you say." le nodded obediently. As long as it brought Meredith back, he was willing to do anything. he wedding day arrived. ristan stood at the entrance, greeting guests with forced courtesy. His eyes, however, neve topped scanning the crowd, searching desperately for one familiar figure. learby, Samantha and Hillary whispered in hushed frustration. Why are there only minor families here? Not a single major business partner showed up. Are ney truly set on offending the Palmer family?" Mom, don't worry," Hillary soothed. "They may not have come, but they all sent generous gifts Once we visit them personally, relations will warm up again. These things take time." amantha's face softened slightly. You're quick-witted. Now, go keep an eye on Tristan. Nothing must go wrong today." Hillary lifted her gown and hurried back to her groom. Her fingertips brushed over the wedding dress she had secretly prepared for seven long years. A ittersweet ache welled in her chest. Tristan, I'm finally marrying you today. I'm so happy." But when she turned, his vacant eyes met hers. Her heart clenched, disappointment crashing over her like a tide. Sadness curdled into bitter resentment. Forget it, she thought. 'As long as I secure this position, I don't care what's in his heart!' On stage, guided by the officiant, the couple moved step by step through the ceremony. Finally, it came to the exchange of rings. Hillary's hand was already lifted halfway when Tristan's phone buzzed violently. He glanced at the screen, and without hesitation, answered. "Is it Meredith? Has she come?" The voice on the other end was tense. "We've located Madam's whereabouts. But right now you-" "Enough. Send me the address. I'm on my way!" His face lit up with unrestrained joy. He spun around to leave-but Hillary clung to him desperately. 'Tristan, you can't! Just one last step and we'll be married. Please-don't do this to me!" Disgust flickered in his eyes as he shoved her away. This wedding was never for you. It was to draw Meredith out. If she doesn't come, then I'll go to er myself!" Tears streamed down her face as she wailed, "No! If you left me now, what would I become? You can't be so cruel!" gnoring her sobs, he leapt from the stage-only to be blocked by Samantha. Unfilial son! With so many guests watching, I forbid you to cause a scene!" Move!" His jaw tightened, fury barely restrained. Please, Tristan..." Samantha's voice shook as she pleaded. This is our last chance. If you walk out today, the Palmer family will become a laughingstock tc he entire world!" His tone turned glacial. "You're the ones who forced the Palmer family name on me. Well, I don't vant it anymore. Whoever wants it can have it!" Without another glance, he pushed past her and stormed toward the doors. Guests whispered, their stares filled with disbelief and ridicule. But none of it mattered to him. He only knew one thing-at long last, he was about to see Meredith again. Chapter 22