The grand cathedral was draped in pristine white orchids, crystal chandeliers, and giant velvet United States flags hanging from the high marble archways. The organ played softly as three hundred wealthy guests took their seats for the most anticipated wedding of the year. Julian stood near the altar in a tailored black tuxedo, adjusting his gold cufflinks with a proud smirk. Next to him, his bride, Chloe, smoothed down her custom silk gown, the diamond-and-emerald necklace around her neck glittering under the bright high-key lighting. Everything about the day screamed endless fortune and perfection.
Chloe: Look at them all, Julian. Everyone who matters in this city is watching us today.
Julian: They came to see the merger of two multi-million dollar real estate empires, darling. You look incredible.
Chloe: I know I do. My father made sure this entire ceremony cost more than most people earn in a lifetime.
Julian: And after today, your sister's share of the family trust is officially merged into our estate.
Suddenly, the heavy oak doors at the back of the cathedral creaked open. A cold draft swept down the center aisle, blowing out several tall flickering candles. Gasps echoed through the rows of groomsmen and guests as the music cut off abruptly. The groomsmen turned around in shock, staring down the aisle in utter disbelief. A woman dressed in a faded tan trench coat was walking slowly past the pews. She was barefoot, her left leg wrapped in bloody gauze, and her head was completely covered by a thick red cloth mask.
Chloe: What is that? Who let a homeless beggar into my sanctuary?
Julian: Security! Where the hell are the guards?
Groomsman: Man, is this some kind of sick prank?
Chloe: Get this trash out of my sight! I'm calling security myself!
The stranger ignored the shouting and kept walking, her bare feet slaps making a wet, heavy sound on the marble floor. She stopped right at the foot of the altar, just inches from the bride. Slowly, her pale, trembling hands reached up toward the red fabric covering her face. As she pulled the mask away, the crowd gasped in horror. The entire right side of her face was covered in terrible, twisted fire scars, her jaw misaligned and her cheek deeply disfigured. Beneath the horrific burn marks, however, were two bright green eyes that Julian recognized instantly.
Julian: No... no, that's impossible. You're dead!
Scarred Woman: You signed my death certificate. You took my inheritance, and you stole my life.
Chloe: Stay back from us, you freak!
The scarred woman leaned directly into Chloe's trembling ear, her voice dropping into a menacing, cold whisper that sent shivers straight down the bride's spine.
Scarred Woman: But the grave wasn't deep enough to hold me...