My Cruel Groom Mocked My Poverty at the Altar Until My Powerful Father Arrived — Part 2

Previously: Chloe thought she was marrying the love of her life, but at the altar, Liam whispered a cruel secret. He didn't know her estranged father was actually his billionaire boss.

The Price of Deceit

The cathedral fell into a stunned, dead silence. Liam’s heart hammered against his ribs like a trapped bird. He was a mid-level project manager at Vance Industries, a massive conglomerate where Arthur Vance ruled with an iron fist. Liam had spent the last two years plotting his ascent up the corporate ladder, never imagining that the quiet, unassuming woman he was dating was the sole heiress to the Vance empire.

Chloe had intentionally hidden her background. Years ago, after her mother passed away, she had walked away from her father’s wealth, determined to build a life on her own terms and find someone who loved her for who she was, not her family’s bank account. Arthur had desperately missed his daughter, and only recently had they begun to repair their fractured relationship. When Chloe invited him to her wedding, Arthur had promised to make it, despite a crucial board meeting.

Arthur ignored Liam’s trembling figure, keeping his focus entirely on Chloe. He gently wiped a tear from her cheek.

blockquote>"I am so sorry, sweetheart. I should have been here sooner to protect you from this leech,"

Arthur murmured. He then turned his piercing gaze toward Liam. The warmth in his eyes was instantly replaced by a cold, calculating fury that had destroyed countless corporate rivals.

blockquote>"Mr. Miller,"

Arthur said, his voice quiet but carrying to every corner of the church.

blockquote>"I believe you were just explaining your true intentions to my daughter. Please, continue. I would love to hear more about how you 'used' her."

Liam swallowed hard, sweat breaking out across his forehead. He looked around the room, realizing his parents and friends were watching him in horror. He tried to offer a weak, desperate smile.

blockquote>"Sir, it was a joke! A misunderstanding! I love Chloe. I was just nervous,"

Liam pleaded, taking a step forward, but Arthur’s security detail quickly stepped into the aisle, blocking him with imposing authority.