Chapter 8 - The Audio Drop
At 9:00 PM, Isabella took the stage. She stood at the podium, dripping in jewels that we now knew were fake, preparing to ask the city's elite for "charitable investments" in her new foundation.
“We are gathered here today to celebrate family, trust, and the bonds that build our community—” Isabella began, her voice echoing through the massive sound system.
Suddenly, her microphone cut out.
The screens behind her, displaying the charity’s logo, flickered and went black. Then, a voice boomed from the overhead speakers. It was Mateo’s voice, crisp and clear from the boathouse recording.
“You brought that on yourself, Chloe. We are family now. What’s yours is ours. If you had just signed the paper, it wouldn't have gotten ugly.”
The ballroom fell dead silent. Isabella froze on stage, her eyes wide with horror.
Then came Chloe’s voice: “So you admit it. You let her attack me for a house.”
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Mateo’s sneering reply echoed off the crystal chandeliers: “Grow up, Chloe. Real wealth requires sacrifice. Now, you’re going to get in my car… and you’re going to sign the deed over to my mother. If you don't, what happened on our wedding night will look like a warm-up.”
Gasps erupted across the room. People began whispering, pointing. Isabella locked eyes with me. I raised my champagne glass in a silent toast.
