Chapter 8 - THE BRIDAL ROOM KEY
The changing-room door had an external lock because the hotel stored jewelry, purses, gifts, and bridal valuables inside during events.
Normally the bride received one key.
Hotel security held another.
Dorothy had hers on a ribbon inside her bouquet bag.
No one else knew she planned to use it on me.
The wedding coordinator, Michelle Ross, testified:
“I told Mrs. Reeves the room could be a rest space if Isabella wanted privacy.”
Did you say lock her in?
“No.”
Did Ethan?
“No.”
Did anyone?
“No.”
Then:
“Why was there a note saying Ethan checks after recessional?”
Michelle looked ashamed.
“Dorothy said Isabella became embarrassed when people fussed over her and would prefer a few quiet minutes.”
Had I said that?
No.
Did Michelle verify?
No.
She thought family was speaking for family.
Again.
Hierarchy.
Assumption.
Convenience.
After the incident, Bellmore Grand changed policy:
No guest may be locked inside a private event room from the exterior except emergency safety situations handled by hotel security.
May you like
Obvious.
Apparently necessary.
