Chapter 4 - The Poisoned Toast
Ethan and Vanessa walked back into the grand, glittering ballroom arm-in-arm. The massive crowd of elite guests, corporate partners, and wealthy family members erupted into applause for the beautiful couple.
Vanessa led Ethan directly to the center of the room, standing beneath the largest crystal chandelier. A waiter approached with a silver tray carrying two perfectly poured crystal flutes of vintage champagne.
Vanessa smiled brightly. She picked up the flute on the left and handed it to Ethan. Then, she picked up the flute on the right for herself.
It was a seamless, practiced movement. But Ethan, now hyper-aware of her every breath, noticed the microscopic hesitation. He noticed how carefully her manicured fingers gripped the stem of his specific glass.
She had already spiked the drink before the waiter even walked onto the floor.
"Friends, family," Vanessa announced, her voice echoing perfectly through the ballroom microphone. She looked up at Ethan with fake, tear-filled eyes. "We all know Ethan has been struggling with his health recently. But his strength, his love, and his resilience have inspired me every single day. To Ethan. The love of my life."
The crowd raised their glasses. "To Ethan!"
Ethan looked down at the bubbling champagne in his hand. He looked at Vanessa, who was watching him with a hidden, toxic anticipation, waiting for him to drink the poison that would finally trigger his massive, fatal heart attack tonight.
Ethan smiled.
May you like
"Thank you, Vanessa," Ethan said loudly, ensuring every single guest heard him. "But before we drink, there is a tradition in my family for the groom to share his cup with his beautiful bride."
👉 Vanessa’s confident smile violently collapsed, and the sheer terror in her eyes signaled her ultimate downfall.
