Chapter 8 - The Gala
Despite the looming threat of Julian’s blackmail, Richard Sterling was a man obsessed with appearances. That Saturday, the Sterling family hosted their annual charity gala at the Charlotte Country Club, acting as though Madeline’s lightning-fast separation was simply a "mutual misunderstanding."
Julian attended, uninvited.
He walked into the grand ballroom wearing the same tuxedo he had worn on his wedding night. The room fell silent as he approached the head table, where Madeline and Richard were holding court with local politicians.
“Julian, you have a lot of nerve showing your face here,” Richard hissed, signaling for security.
“Call them off, Richard,” Julian said loudly, his voice carrying over the string quartet. “Or I play the video on the projector right now.”
Madeline’s face turned the color of ash. “You’re bluffing.”
Julian pulled a silver flash drive from his pocket and held it up. “I found Chloe’s stash, Madeline. I know she tipped you off. I know you both planned it.”
The color completely drained from Madeline’s face. She looked at her father in sheer panic.
Suddenly, the heavy oak doors of the country club swung open. Detective Miller walked in, flanked by four uniformed police officers.
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“Richard Sterling, Madeline Sterling,” Detective Miller announced, his voice booming over the murmurs of the elite crowd. “You are under arrest for conspiracy to commit murder, obstruction of justice, and bribery.”
Madeline screamed—the exact same raw, desperate scream she had let out on her wedding night. But this time, it wasn't from fear of Julian. It was the fear of the truth finally catching up to her.
