Chapter 8 - The Charity Gala
The country club was glittering with crystal chandeliers and overflowing with champagne.
The entire elite society of our city was gathered to celebrate my father’s supposed philanthropic efforts.
I walked through the grand double doors wearing a simple black dress, carrying my laptop bag over my shoulder.
The security guards at the entrance tried to stop me, but I shoved past them with terrifying determination.
I saw my mother, Eleanor, wearing diamonds bought with blood money, laughing with the mayor.
I saw my father, Richard, standing on the grand stage, holding a microphone and smiling warmly at the crowd.
He was in the middle of a speech about the importance of family and community.
Vanessa was standing near the edge of the stage, her face completely pale when she made eye contact with me.
I didn't hesitate for a single second.
I marched straight down the center aisle, ignoring the confused stares of the wealthy guests.
"Claire, what is the meaning of this?" my mother hissed, stepping in front of me.
"Get out of my way, Mom," I growled, pushing past her with enough force to make her stumble.
I walked up the stairs to the stage, my eyes locked onto my father's terrified face.
He tried to signal his security team, but I was already standing right beside him.
I snatched the microphone directly out of his trembling hand.
The feedback squealed loudly through the massive speakers, silencing the entire ballroom instantly.
"My father just told you all how much he values family," I announced, my voice booming through the room.
May you like
The crowd stared at me in stunned, breathless silence.
"Now let me tell you what he actually does to the people he claims to love."
