Chapter 3 - The Grand Entrance
Julian stared at Spencer with an expression of pure, unadulterated disgust.
Spencer was completely oblivious to the danger, continuing to brag about his company's latest quarterly earnings.
Paisley clung tightly to Spencer's arm, flashing her fake, practiced smile at my brother.
"I am truly honored to meet you, Mr. Harrell," Paisley purred, batting her eyelashes.
Julian did not even acknowledge her presence, keeping his icy gaze locked directly on Spencer.
Before Julian could say a word, the heavy mahogany doors of the grand ballroom swung wide open.
I stepped gracefully into the magnificent room, surrounded by a dozen armed security guards.
The classical music abruptly stopped, and the entire gala went completely silent.
Hundreds of the wealthiest people in the city turned to stare at the woman in the crimson gown.
Spencer turned around in annoyance, wondering what was causing such a massive distraction.
His jaw practically hit the floor as his brain struggled to comprehend what he was seeing.
He did not recognize his own wife hiding beneath the diamonds and the stunning designer dress.
Paisley squinted her eyes, her arrogant smile slowly fading into a look of deep confusion.
I walked directly toward them, commanding the attention of every single person in the massive room.
Spencer's eyes widened in sheer panic as he finally realized who was standing in front of him.
"Phoebe?" Spencer gasped, his voice cracking like a terrified child.
"How did you get past the security guards wearing those fake diamonds?" Paisley snapped, trying to regain her confidence.
Spencer aggressively grabbed Paisley's arm and told her to shut her mouth immediately.
He tried to step forward to touch me, but Carter instantly blocked his path with a muscular arm.
The elegant host of the gala quickly rushed up to the main microphone on the stage.
He cleared his throat nervously, wiping a bead of sweat from his forehead.
"Ladies and gentlemen, we have a sudden and very important change to our schedule tonight," the host announced.
May you like
He pointed a trembling hand directly toward where I was standing.
"Please welcome our true guest of honor, the sole heiress to the Harrell financial empire."
