Chapter 1 - The Shattered Glass
The grand wedding ballroom buzzed with elite high-society guests under towering crystal chandeliers. Soft light reflected off polished marble floors, illuminating opulent white floral arrangements.
Julian Drake stood near the main stage in an elegant black tuxedo, white dress shirt, and black bow tie, a crisp white floral boutonnière pinned to his lapel. Early 30s, handsome with dark wavy hair and light stubble, he held a crystal flute of vintage champagne, greeting city officials and wealthy investors.
Without warning, a small figure in a dusty rose sleeveless lace dress raced through the crowd, her long dark brown curly hair bouncing with every step.
She threw her tiny arms around Julian’s thigh, hugging his leg with all her strength.
"Daddy Julian!" six-year-old Mia shouted happily.
The sudden impact caught Julian completely off guard. His hand jerked, and the crystal glass slipped from his fingers.
CRASH!
The champagne glass shattered loudly on the marble floor, spraying golden liquid and crystal shards across the gleaming stone.
The ballroom fell dead silent. Music faded into background static as dozens of wealthy eyes locked onto the groom and the little girl holding onto him.
Julian froze in utter shock. He slowly looked down at the child whose amber-gold eyes beamed up at him with unconditional affection.
May you like
"Who… who are you?" Julian stuttered, his voice breathless and trembling.
👉 What made Julian’s heart stop when he raised his eyes toward the crowd?
