Shota's Isekai NTR Adventure Chapter 2228: What are you doing here?

"He hasn't shown up yet?"

This question echoed frequently throughout the wedding festivities.

Noah, blessed with keen hearing, caught every whispered query.

Yet, he feigned ignorance, choosing not to acknowledge the murmurs.

He knew precisely who the focus of their curiosity was; there was only one individual they could possibly be discussing.

However, that very person had already been deliberately sent away.

The wedding itself was orchestrated as a diversion, intended to draw attention away from someone specific. It would defeat the purpose if that person were to make an appearance.

Upon further reflection, Noah acknowledged a slight miscalculation in sending his brother-in-law away.

His absence might lead to speculation that their relationship was strained.

Such rumors could potentially have adverse long-term consequences.

But this concern vanished the moment he laid eyes on his bride.

The instant Sakura graced the scene, all other thoughts and concerns evaporated. She became the sole focus of his world.

He had never witnessed her quite like this, and the sight captivated him entirely. Noah resolved to etch every detail of this moment into his memory.

After all, this was a spectacle he had never before beheld.

Fundamentally, Noah harbored deep affection for Sakura.

This feeling had blossomed gradually from their youth.

As Shadow One, sworn to protect the royal family, she naturally crossed paths with Noah, a former prince.

Their initial encounters did not immediately spark romantic feelings.

In truth, it was Noah who fell in love first.

During her tenure serving the royal household, Shadow One displayed remarkable qualities.

Notably, Noah once observed her training in solitude.

Witnessing her dedication and the sheer effort she poured into her practice made it nearly impossible for the young fourth prince not to fall in love. He was a simple soul, drawn to diligence and hard work.

The chasm between them, created by their differing social statuses, had been a significant obstacle.

Now that he had meticulously arranged everything, Noah was determined not to let her slip away.

As Sakura approached and met Noah's gaze, a delicate blush bloomed on her cheeks. However, recognizing him as her future husband, she felt no profound embarrassment.

Their lives were irrevocably intertwined, destined to be shared as husband and wife.

With both the bride and groom now present, a hush fell over the attendees as they awaited the commencement of the ceremony.

Yet, as the proceedings began, an unexpected turn of events caught everyone by surprise.

"What are you doing here?" Noah inquired of the individual officiating the wedding.

The ceremony was not being conducted by a conventional priest, but by his own brother-in-law.

Noah's question stemmed not from doubt regarding his brother-in-law's qualifications, but from the fact that the entire purpose of the wedding was to divert attention from his brother-in-law's whereabouts.

Seeing him standing behind the altar compelled Noah to question his presence.

Zwein appeared to disregard Noah's question, continuing with the wedding vows.

His delivery was so impeccable that he seemed every bit the seasoned officiant.

Ultimately, no one intervened, despite a few murmurs of doubt about his suitability.

These concerns quickly dissipated when priests from the Holy Empire itself were seen participating in the wedding rites.

As the prophesied Holy Son, Zwein possessed more than ample qualification to officiate. In fact, his presence might be considered an extravagance, placing him on par with the highest religious leaders.

Consequently, everyone accepted his role as the officiant.

Well, everyone except for Noah.

Noah inwardly wished for Zwein's departure; he did not desire his presence there.

During a brief pause in Zwein's speech, Noah appeared poised to confront him.

However, he reconsidered upon hearing Zwein's subsequent words.

"I shall depart shortly. I merely wished to show myself, ensuring no one would fret."

Although Noah's expression did not convey approval, he understood that this action aligned with their overarching objective. Therefore, he had no alternative but to concede.

One particular matter lingered in Noah's mind.

It was inconceivable that Zwein could have orchestrated this appearance without assistance. The only individuals capable of aiding him were...

His gaze shifted to Sakura, and he perceived the expression she directed towards him.

He did not linger on the thought, knowing she had acted with his best interests at heart.

In the end, love transcended all, and he accepted the situation.

Yet, a part of him also felt a sense of contentment that Zwein had been present.

A typical wedding, where his family would be present, was what he had truly desired.

Yet, upon closer consideration, the sheer number of attendees would have rendered it far from ordinary. Moreover, the media attention surrounding this union was undeniably excessive.

For the moment, however, he found contentment in the scene before him.