Chapter 1 - The Gala
The engine of my sports car roared as I tore through the city streets.
Every red light I ran felt like a countdown to my son’s execution.
My mind was a chaotic whirlwind of rage, guilt, and sheer adrenaline.
How could I have been so utterly blind to Vivienne’s monstrous nature?
I pulled up to the grand entrance of the Starlight Hotel, tires screeching against the polished cobblestone.
Valets rushed forward, but I tossed the keys to the nearest one without a single word.
I stormed past the velvet ropes, ignoring the flashing cameras and shouting paparazzi.
The grand ballroom doors loomed ahead, guarded by two men in sharp suits.
They recognized me instantly and stepped aside, parting like the Red Sea.
I pushed the heavy oak doors open, and the sound of clinking champagne glasses flooded my ears.
Vivienne stood at the center of the room, draped in a blood-red designer gown.
She was laughing effortlessly, her arm linked with a prominent state senator.
She looked like an angel to the rest of the world, but I finally saw the demon underneath.
I adjusted my tie, forcing my face into a mask of calm composure.
I needed answers, and I needed them before the clock struck midnight.
As I approached her, Vivienne’s eyes lit up with fake adoration.
“Julian, darling, you finally made it!” she purred, leaning in to kiss my cheek.
I barely suppressed a shudder as her lips brushed my skin.
“I wouldn’t miss our special night for the world,” I replied, my voice dangerously low.
I placed my hand on her lower back, guiding her away from the crowd.
“We need to talk in private, Vivienne, right now.”
She frowned, sensing the tension radiating from my body, but followed me into a secluded VIP lounge.
The moment the door clicked shut, the fake smile vanished from my face.
“Where is he?” I demanded, stepping into her personal space.
Vivienne blinked, feigning innocent confusion.
“Where is who, Julian? You’re acting crazy.”
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“My son, Vivienne! The third baby! The one you stole for your mother’s sick genetic experiments!”
Her perfectly manicured facade cracked for a split second, a flash of pure panic in her eyes.
