Chapter 4 - The Fall of the Sterling Empire
Panic erupted in Victoria’s eyes. She lunged forward, her manicured claws aiming for Clara’s face. "I made you! I kept a roof over your head! You owe me your life!"
Before she could land a scratch, Alexander caught Victoria’s wrist mid-air. His grip was a vice, his expression terrifyingly calm.
"She owes you nothing," Alexander said, dropping her arm as if touching it disgusted him.
The federal agents approached, flashing their badges. "Victoria Sterling, you are under arrest. Please step away from the guests."
Mr. Gallagher, realizing the ship was sinking, attempted to slip out the side exit. He was intercepted by two of Alexander’s private security guards, who politely escorted the terrified old man into the waiting arms of the police outside.
Victoria was handcuffed in front of the city’s elite. The cameras flashed aggressively, capturing the spectacular downfall of the woman who thought she was untouchable. As they led her away, she screamed Clara’s name, cursing her, but Clara did not flinch.
She stood tall, watching the woman who had tormented her for a decade be dragged out into the cold night.
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Alexander stepped behind Clara, his hand coming to rest lightly, protectively, on the small of her back. "Are you alright?" he murmured.
Clara took a deep breath, the heavy, suffocating weight she had carried for years finally lifting from her chest. "I’m exactly where I’m supposed to be."
