Dear Ex-wife Marry Me novel (Maja) novel Chapter 2224

A jolt ran through Lily’s body—a sinking sense of dread coiling in her stomach.

Sure enough, Athena spoke up a moment later.

“Wasn’t it enough to bully me all through high school? Can’t you leave me alone, even here? Or has Maggie been whispering in your ear again?”

Maggie? Wasn’t she today’s bride? What did this have to do with her?

Most guests had barely noticed the tense exchange, but at the mention of Maggie, suddenly everyone’s interest was piqued. Eyes drifted across the hall to where Maggie stood in her white wedding gown, looking as shocked as the rest. She hadn’t expected Athena to cause a scene—especially not on her wedding day.

What on earth is Athena planning?

“Maggie!” she shouted, her voice ringing out over the music.

Athena flinched in Tyler’s arms, shrinking back almost instinctively. It was clear she was terrified of Maggie.

Fury made Maggie’s chest heave. “Athena, this is my wedding. If you’re here to ruin it on purpose, I’ll have security escort you out.”

Athena didn’t answer. She simply pressed her forehead against Tyler’s chest, silent.

Tyler looked down at her, worry etched on his face. He gently patted her head. “What’s going on, Athena?”

Athena’s voice trembled. “It won’t matter if I say anything.”

Grandma Edith, who had been quietly observing, broke in. “How do you know it won’t matter? If you’ve been wronged, say it now. Maybe I can help you.”

The air in the room grew tense. People exchanged glances, wondering what had gotten into Grandma Edith. Wasn’t she usually fond of Maggie? Why was she taking a stranger’s side today?

He stood with Grandma Edith now.

Maggie’s face blanched, at a loss for words. She couldn’t turn to her cousin Abner for help; he’d never take her side.

The room fell silent. All eyes were on Athena.

Tyler, seeing her so vulnerable for the first time, felt his heart twist. He spoke softly, “Go ahead, Athena. Say what you want to say.”

She looked up at him, uncertainty in her eyes, as if asking, Are you sure?

He smiled gently, squeezing her cheek. “Grandma Edith wants to hear it. Don’t be afraid.”