Chapter 1097

“This is Mr. Lowe’s territory,” Debra said, glancing at Marion. “We should toast him for providing such a great venue for our wedding.”

Marion picked up his glass and clinked it against Drake’s. Marion downed his glass first, and Drake followed suit.

Debra smiled and looked around. Everyone was there except Andrew. “Erica, where’s Andrew?” she asked quietly.

Erica looked around, but there were no signs of him. “He disappeared after entering the venue. Maybe he had something urgent to attend to and left early?”

Garland chimed in, “He sent such an expensive gift but didn’t even stay for a drink? Is this guy nuts?”

Erica kicked him. “Watch your mouth. If his people hear you, you’re finished.”

“You’re beating me up before they even get the chance,” Garland muttered.

He was just speaking the truth. Who would just show their faces at the wedding and then leave?

Debra said, “It’s okay. Andrew is always busy. He’s never left Seamar City in all these years. The fact that he came personally means a lot to me.”

She had reserved a seat for Andrew at the main table. Seeing the empty seat made her feel a bit lost. After all their time together, she had come to see him as more than just a business partner. She didn’t dare hope for more, but she truly valued their friendship.

“Alright, it’s my turn,” Randy urged, while Garland just wanted to change out of his dirty clothes.

In the corner, Andrew leaned against the wall, with Barton supporting him. His rehab had been tough. Though he could walk now, every step was agonizing, and it took a tremendous amount of energy. Just standing there for a moment had left him drenched in sweat.

“Sir, aren’t you going to have a drink?” Barton asked.

He knew how much effort Andrew had put into the wedding.

Andrew smiled faintly, “I can’t drink. I’m already content to see the wedding. Drinking doesn’t matter. We have urgent matters to attend to in Seamar City. Let’s go.”

“But won’t Mrs. Houston be disappointed if you leave like this?”

“We’re just business partners. Her marriage to Marion is a happy occasion. Today should be the happiest day of her life.”

Andrew watched with a smile as Debra and Marion toasted the guests. At least, he had helped Debra find someone worthy of her trust. His job was mostly done.

“Book the tickets. We’re going back.”

“Yes, sir.”

After several rounds of drinks, Randy finally mustered the courage to pull a confused Erica to the rose arch. He got down on one knee and took out a ring. “Erica, marry me.”