Chapter 21 - THE QUEEN'S VERDICT
Mariana looked down at Evelyn with the same cold, clinical detachment she had worn on the mansion floor.
"You called me a penniless orphan who deserved a harsh reminder of her boundaries just forty-eight hours ago, Evelyn," Mariana reminded her softly.
Evelyn flinched as if she had been physically struck across the face by those exact words.
"Richard raised his hand against me under your direct approval, expecting me to cower in fear," Mariana continued evenly.
"You built an empire on manipulation and cruelty, believing your last name made you untouchable."
"Now you reap the exact harvest you planted. Security, escort this woman out of the building."
The guards moved in instantly, taking Evelyn by her arms and guiding her toward the revolving glass exit doors.
May you like
Evelyn sobbed openly as she was dragged out into the bustling New York street, her social supremacy reduced to nothing.
Mariana turned around calmly, walking back toward her elevator without a single backward glance.
