Chapter 3 - The Gala of Ashes
Two weeks later, the ballroom of the Plaza Hotel was a sea of diamonds, champagne, and ruthless ambition.
Victoria Sterling stood near the center ice sculpture, laughing falsely with a group of investors. Beside her was Arthur Gallagher, looking sour and impatient.
“She will turn up, Arthur, I promise you,” Victoria hissed under her breath, her diamond necklace glittering. “She has no money. No phone. She will come crawling back to me.”
“She better,” Gallagher sneered. “Or I pull my funding tomorrow.”
Suddenly, the string quartet at the front of the room abruptly stopped playing. A hush fell over the crowd, rippling outward from the grand double doors.
Julian Vance had arrived.
But it wasn't the notoriously ruthless billionaire that had the room holding its breath. It was the woman on his arm.
Clara wore a custom-made, backless crimson gown that clung to her curves like liquid fire. Her dark hair was swept into an elegant updo, framing the dazzling diamond choker around her neck—a piece worth more than Victoria’s entire estate. Julian’s large, warm hand rested possessively on the small of her back.
Victoria’s champagne flute shattered against the marble floor.
“Clara?” Victoria gasped, her face draining of color.
Julian guided Clara directly toward her stepmother, parting the crowd like the Red Sea. When they reached Victoria, Julian’s smile was lethal.
“Victoria,” Julian greeted smoothly. “I don't believe you’ve formally congratulated us.”
“Congratulate you?” Victoria stammered, looking wildly from Julian to Clara, who stood tall and defiant. “What is the meaning of this? Clara, get over here right now!”
Clara didn't flinch. She leaned slightly closer to Julian. “I don't take orders from you anymore, Victoria.”
Julian raised his left hand, and Clara mirrored the gesture. Matching, flawless platinum bands gleamed on their ring fingers.
“Meet my wife, Mrs. Clara Vance,” Julian announced, his voice carrying just enough to be heard by the surrounding investors. “And as her husband, I am now the primary stakeholder in her inherited trust. Sterling Industries will be undergoing an immediate audit. I suggest you pack your office, Victoria. You’re fired.”
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The collective gasp from the room was music to Clara’s ears. Victoria looked as though she might faint, while Gallagher quietly backed away into the crowd, wanting no part of Julian Vance’s wrath.
For the first time in her life, Clara wasn't prey. She was untouchable.
