Chapter 7
Julian didn't even turn his head to look at her, maintaining his absolute, freezing silence as the officers guided her toward the front doors.
"Save your breath for the magistrate, Ms. Vance; your social standing won't protect you in a criminal court," Detective Vance stated bluntly.
The cold steel handcuffs clicked sharply into place around her wrists, echoing through the grand foyer like a definitive final judgment.
She was pushed out the door and into the back of the cruiser, the flashing red and blue lights painting her tear-streaked face in stark contrast.
As the police vehicles disappeared down the private avenue, a profound, cleansing stillness settled over the majestic historic estate.
Julian walked back into his private study, picking up his desk phone to confirm the cancellation of all rehearsal dinner reservations with the venue.
"Inform the caterers, the florists, and the hotel management that the Sterling-Vance wedding is officially canceled in its entirety," Julian directed.
"Yes, Mr. Sterling; word is already spreading across Wall Street and major news outlets about the sudden dissolution," his assistant confirmed.
May you like
He hung up the phone, leaning back in his leather chair as a heavy weight lifted off his shoulders for the first time in months.
He had narrowly avoided binding his life and his daughter's future to a monster disguised in designer clothing and aristocratic charm.
