The Stolen Life?

As the wedding drew to a close, Takagi and Erina, seated at the head table, both looked sullen and distracted. They did not even exchange glances, seeming utterly estranged.

Though neither said it aloud, they both knew their lies had been exposed. Neither knew how they were supposed to face the other afterward.

Just then—

"Everyone, it's time for today's special segment! The groom, Yuki, has invited a special guest—a comedian the bride, Erina, especially loves. Please welcome Mr. Durian!" Yamagishi suddenly announced.

The bride, Erina, froze at his words and looked at Yamagishi in confusion. She did not understand why they were bringing out some comedian she did not even know at a time like this.

Naturally, the guests assumed it was a surprise segment and began applauding.

However, the people who pushed open the doors were not Mr. Durian, but Haitani, Amaki, and several other officers from Beika Police Station, all wearing grim expressions.

"Please remain quiet. Nobody move. We are police officers. A suspect in a certain case is hiding among the guests. We have confirmed that the culprit hid conclusive evidence inside one of the gift bags. We will now search them one by one. Please do not touch the bags," Haitani said, fully committing to the act.

The atmosphere in the room turned strange, and the guests could not help whispering among themselves.

However—

Because of what Yamagishi had said earlier, everyone still believed this was merely part of the performance.

Elsewhere, a "Kuro" emerged from the dressing room carrying a bag. Sneaking through the corridor, she arrived at another dark, empty banquet hall. Kuro lowered her head to look at the bag in her hands. Just as she sighed in relief, she heard a voice.

"Where do you think you're going?"

The lights came