The Perfect Wife's Perfect Revenge novel Chapter 251

Yes, that was definitely hostility. He thought about it for a second—he hadn't done anything to offend McNeil lately, had he?

"Let's grab the cotton candy and head out. We'll take Gwyn to play, so you don't have to stick around."

Every word out of McNeil's mouth made it clear he didn't want Marcus there. Only then did Marcus remember—he was supposed to be buying cotton candy for Max.

"Wait, where's Gwyn?"

Violet snapped out of the cold war between the two men, suddenly realizing that Gwyneth was nowhere to be seen.

At that moment, Gwyneth was weaving through the crowd in the central square, searching for Max and Victoria. But there were so many people, she circled around and couldn't spot them anywhere. Only when she stopped did she realize she'd gotten separated from her dad and Violet.

"Dad? Violet?"

Panic crept in—a rare feeling for her—as she looked everywhere, but saw no sign of McNeil or Violet.

That's when the fear really hit her. Tears welled up and spilled over, rolling down her cheeks like beads.

"Gwyn—!"

Back where McNeil and Violet were, they'd also started searching for Gwyneth.

"I'll drop off the cotton candy and help look for her."

Realizing how serious things were, Marcus hurried off in the direction of Max and Victoria.

McNeil shot a cold glance Marcus's way, just in time to spot Victoria laughing as she talked to Max. For some reason, a sharp pang twisted in his chest. He tore his eyes away and forced himself to focus on finding his daughter.

"Uncle Marcus, what took you so long?"

Max looked up as Marcus arrived, the sparkler in his hand burnt out.

"Gwyneth's missing."

Marcus handed over the cotton candy to Max and Victoria. Victoria's eyes widened instantly. "Gwyneth?"

"Yeah, she's a friend's daughter. We were just buying cotton candy together, and then she disappeared. You two stay put, don't wander off. I'll help look for her and meet you back here. Fannie, please keep an eye on Max. Don't let him run off."

Marcus was gone in a flash, leaving Victoria with a knot of worry in her chest. How could Gwyneth have gone missing here?

"I'll help look for her."

Victoria had known Gwyn since she was born—she'd watched her grow up, practically raised her. The thought of something happening to the little girl made her heart ache.

"I want to help too, Miss Fannie. You don't know what Gwyneth looks like, but I do. Let me come with you."

Max didn't know about Victoria's bond with Gwyneth, and there was no way Victoria could leave a five-year-old alone. So she took Max's hand, and together they started searching.

Four adults and one child fanned out across the crowded square, calling Gwyneth's name.