Chapter 2 - THE CRIMSON STAIN
The stinging echo of Julian Sterling's palm against Victoria Vance’s cheek vibrated through the silent, opulent golden ballroom.
A thin, crimson streak of blood appeared instantly at the corner of Victoria's pristine lip, contrasting sharply with her emerald green tailored pantsuit.
Julian stood towering over her high-backed golden throne chair, his burgundy suit jacket straining against his broad, tense shoulders.
His slick dark hair caught the crystal chandelier light, gleaming with the toxic arrogance of a man who believed he owned the world.
Beside him, Celeste clung tightly to his arm, her royal blue silk evening dress rustling softly as she sneered down in triumph.
Victoria did not flinch, her posture remaining rigidly composed against the velvet upholstery of the imperial seat.
She raised her hand slowly, her dark eyes locking onto Julian with a cold, piercing glare that cut straight through his bravado.
"You’re officially out of my life, Victoria," Julian barked, his voice dripping with venomous disdain as he dismissed her existence entirely.
The American flag stood quietly positioned by the grand white-and-gold double doors, its silent fabric watching over the betrayal unfolding within.
Celeste adjusted her diamond necklace, her voice dripping with mock sympathy as she addressed the fallen corporate queen.
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"You really thought you could run Vance Enterprises forever while Julian pulled the real strings, didn't you?" Celeste mocked viciously.
Victoria remained eerily silent, her slow, deliberate breathing serving as the only warning of the storm about to unleash.
