Chapter 3 - SANCTUARY AND SUSPICION
Victoria choked back a sob as Julian’s grip tightened, the harsh bathroom vanity lights highlighting every micro-expression of her panic.
"I gave you everything in this house, yet you brought hell to my daughter," Julian declared, releasing her jaw so abruptly she stumbled onto the floor.
He did not wait for her reply, turning his back on her as he strode out into the grand hallway of the Westchester estate.
In the study, Dr. Miller was already applying a cooling medical dressing to Lily’s right hand under the watchful eye of Mrs. Gable.
"It’s a deliberate contact burn, Mr. Sterling," the physician said grimly, locking eyes with Julian. "I am legally mandated to report this to Child Protective Services and the NYPD."
"Do it," Julian commanded without a second's hesitation. "Make sure the precinct captain sends his best detectives to this address right now."
Down the hall, the sound of heavy heels clicking hurriedly against the polished oak floor indicated Victoria was attempting to pack her belongings.
Julian gestured to two towering private estate security guards waiting in the foyer.
"Block every exit," Julian ordered coldly. "Nobody leaves this estate until the police finish taking fingerprints off that red lighter."
Hearing his words from the top of the stairwell, Victoria’s face drained of all color as she realized she was trapped in a gilded cage.
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She clutched her luxury leather handbag to her chest, realizing that her golden ticket into Manhattan high society had just become her arrest warrant.
***
