Chapter 18 - The Poisoned Champagne
Three weeks later, Montgomery Global hosted its annual charity gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in Manhattan.
Clara walked through the crowded hall wearing an emerald green silk gown, her back scars hidden beneath delicate lace.
Julian stood near the bar, looking gaunt and pale in a cheap rented tuxedo, drinking heavily.
He stumbled toward Clara, holding two glasses of champagne, his eyes glassy and unfocused.
"Clara... please... just give me five minutes," Julian begged, offering her one of the crystal flutes.
Clara took the glass to avoid creating a scene in front of the high-society donors and press photographers.
"You need to go home, Julian," Clara said sternly, setting the glass onto a waiter's tray without taking a sip.
Ten seconds later, a sudden commotion erupted near the entrance doors as a waiter collapsed onto the floor.
The waiter who had picked up Clara's champagne glass was convulsing violently, foam rising from his lips.
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Screams echoed through the museum as security guards swarmed the hall, locking down all exit doors immediately.
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