Chapter 5 - The Cracks in the Facade
Julian’s arrogant grin froze. His collar suddenly looked two sizes too small.
“What does that have to do with anything?” Julian stammered, adjusting his cuffs. “I was in Boston reviewing the quarterly transport logistics. You know that.”
“Really?” Adrian murmured, stepping around the table. His tall frame cast a long, intimidating shadow over his stepbrother. “Because according to this surveillance still from the Port Authority terminal in Queens, you were sitting right beside Claire while she delivered eight million dollars in bearer bonds to an offshore mechanic.”
A collective gasp swept through the ballroom.
Claire’s fake tears instantly vanished. Her expression morphed into something venomous and calculating.
“Adrian, you’re letting a delusional employee drive a wedge between us!” Claire hissed, stepping forward and reaching aggressively for Mara’s satin clutch. “Give me that! What forged garbage did she hand you? She’s a thief!”
Claire lunged forward, her diamond ring grazing Mara’s cheek as she tried to snatch the files. Mara didn't flinch. She twisted her shoulder, stepping firmly behind Adrian.
“Don't touch her,” Adrian snarled, catching Claire’s wrist mid-air with iron grip.
The room gasped again. Adrian Vale was famously reserved, a man who never showed temper in public. But his grip was unbreakable, and his dark eyes were blazing with lethal fury.
“Adrian! You’re hurting me!” Claire shrieked, playing to the crowd. “Look at how he’s treating me! Over a pathetic accountant!”
“You’re right, Claire,” Adrian said softly, his voice chillingly level. “A rehearsal dinner deserves entertainment. Let’s play the commemorative video you prepared for us on the big screen.”
May you like
👉 *Click to read Part 6: What was uploaded to the ballroom’s giant projection screen?*
***
