Chapter 1
The cold silence inside the grand Manhattan ballroom cut deeper than a winter frost.
Under the massive crystal chandelier, hundred-million-dollar deals and political legacies ground to a sudden halt.
Edward Sterling’s hand remained steady on the sapphire blue silk dress, exposing the horrific dark bruises on Elena’s back to the entire room.
Julian stayed on his knees, his forehead practically touching the polished marble floor as tears soaked his grey suit collar.
"Stand up, Julian," Edward commanded, his dark navy blue tuxedo jacket unbuttoned as he towered over the young man.
"A Sterling man does not crawl, especially after committing an act of utter cowardice."
Chloe backed away, her crimson red gown rustling against the velvet tablecloth behind her.
Her blonde hair updo looked immaculately styled, yet her chest heaved with shallow, erratic breaths.
"You can't blame me for this, Uncle Edward!" Chloe shrieked, her voice echoing off the high ceilings.
"She was sabotaging the family trust fund behind your back!"
Elena stood completely motionless, her long dark hair cascading over one shoulder as she bore the weight of every gaze in the room.
She did not cry out, nor did she attempt to pull her sapphire dress back up to hide the marks of violence.
"Security," Edward said softly, his whisper carrying more terrifying weight than a thunderclap.
Four burly men in black suits stepped out from behind the velvet drapes near the framed American flag.
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"Lock the doors of the ballroom," Edward instructed, his dead eyes fixed on Julian’s shaking frame.
"Nobody leaves this building until the family physician arrives and the police are notified."
