Chapter 3: The Web of Deceit Unravels
"Call the police," Ethan said, his voice terrifyingly calm.
Before Victoria could sprint toward the service exit, three undercover NYPD officers—who had been stationed at the gala for high-profile security—stepped out of the crowd and blocked her path. The ballroom erupted into absolute chaos. High-society guests pulled out their phones, recording the spectacular downfall of Manhattan's favorite IT-girl.
As the handcuffs clicked around Victoria’s delicate wrists, she stopped pretending. She sneered at Ethan, her face contorting into a mask of pure venom.
"You think you won, Ethan?" Victoria hissed, spit flying from her lips as she was dragged down the aisle. "You're nothing without your money! My partners will finish what I started. You’re a dead man walking!"
Once the police cruiser sped away, the ballroom emptied, leaving Ethan standing alone amidst the overturned chairs and spilled champagne. The silence was deafening. He looked at Clara, who was quietly sweeping up the broken glass she had caused.
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"Why did you risk your life for me?" Ethan asked, stepping down from the stage. "If she had caught you filming that, she would have killed you instead."
Clara stopped sweeping and looked up, her eyes clear and honest. "My father worked for your family's charity foundation, Mr. Vance. When he was sick, your father paid for his medical bills out of his own pocket. I couldn't sit back and watch a monster destroy the family that saved mine."
