Chapter 16 - THE SECURITY ORDER
The security chief said Carter instructed guards to detain Mia if she approached, claiming she might carry stolen medical records or a concealed device.
Lucas revoked the order and replaced it with a clear protocol: no guard could touch Mia unless necessary to prevent immediate harm. She was to be brought into public view with her advocate contacted at once.
Carter produced the church’s private contract showing Lucas’s authority over exterior security transferred to the wedding coordinator on event day.
The coordinator was Brooke Lane.
Valeria’s former assistant now worked for Carter.
Lucas canceled the private team and hired new security. Carter obtained an emergency order arguing last-minute changes endangered guests. The judge required the original company to remain but placed a city police liaison at the entrance.
The compromise left divided command.
Mia could not know which guard would follow which order.
Naomi circulated a child-safety bulletin to every officer and vendor. Carter responded by alleging Lucas planned to use a child as bait at a public event.
The accusation carried uncomfortable truth. They were keeping the ceremony visible because Mia believed it was her destination.
The child advocate demanded contingency routes, a private safe room controlled by the court, and authority to end the operation if Mia appeared distressed.
Lucas agreed.
Valeria asked whether she should remain away from the church. Mia feared her, and her presence could trigger panic.
Priya said Carter expected Valeria’s signature. Without her, he might not reveal the final documents.
Valeria chose to attend but insisted no one conceal her prior involvement from Mia.
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At sunset, a maintenance worker found muddy footprints leading into the church basement.
They were the size of a child’s worn sneakers.
