Chapter 4 - The Escape Attempt
Before anyone could cross the remaining distance of the altar, Julian lunged backward. He didn't fall into the dark pit; instead, with surprising agility, he caught the edge of the stone platform with his hands, swung his legs over, and dropped down into the narrow maintenance corridor below.
"Stop him!" an uncle roared, sprinting forward, but he was too late.
The heavy trapdoor slammed shut from underneath with a loud, echoing bang, followed by the distinct sound of a heavy iron bolt sliding into place.
The bride didn't hesitate. She kicked off her high heels, ignoring the torn lace of her wedding dress, and ran to the edge of the altar. She dropped to her knees, pounding her fists against the stone.
"Julian! Open this door!" she screamed.
A muffled laugh echoed from beneath the floorboards. "Keep the ring, darling! I'll be cashing out the accounts by morning!"
Footsteps faded rapidly down the subterranean drainage tunnel, moving toward the old crypt exit that led to the alley behind the church.
"He's heading for the alley parking lot!" shouted one of the groomsmen from the back, recognizing the architectural layout of the historic building. Several athletic guests immediately turned and sprinted toward the side exits to cut him off.
The bride remained on her knees, her breath coming in ragged gasps. The fairy-tale wedding she had dreamed of since childhood was gone, replaced by a nightmare of deception. But as she knelt there, staring at the cold stone, a warm, heavy weight pressed against her shoulder.
She turned. Buster was sitting right beside her, nudging her cheek with his wet nose, letting out a soft, reassuring whimper.
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She wrapped her arms around the old dog’s thick neck, burying her face in his fur, and finally let the tears fall. But they weren't tears of defeat. They were tears of survival.
"Good boy," she choked out, kissing the top of his graying head. "You saved my life."
