Chapter 4 - The Gala of Deceit
Victoria Vance never missed an opportunity to flaunt her stolen empire. The annual Vance Foundation Charity Gala was her crowning achievement. The manor was transformed into a glittering spectacle of diamonds, champagne, and the city’s most elite predators.
Julian was forced to attend. Dressed in a tailored tuxedo that felt like a straitjacket, he was paraded around as the "beloved, grieving stepson." Victoria kept a manicured hand firmly clamped on his shoulder, her nails digging into his collarbone as she smiled for the cameras.
"He is so brave," Victoria cooed to a group of senators, sipping her Pinot Noir. "With Arthur’s tragic condition, Julian and I have become each other’s entire world."
Julian forced a hollow, practiced smile, his mind racing.
Tonight was the night. The manor was flooded with guests, which meant the security detail was spread dangerously thin.
Mrs. Gable was working the event, managing the catering staff. When Victoria was distracted by a real estate mogul, she released her grip on Julian. He immediately slipped through the crowd, heading for the kitchen.
Mrs. Gable was waiting by the service elevator. She handed him a small, heavy velvet pouch.
"The security detail on the East Wing has been rotated to the front gates for the valets," Mrs. Gable whispered urgently. "You have twenty minutes before the shift change. The painting requires a thumbprint, but the silver key overrides the biometric lock. Do it now."
"What about Victoria?" Julian asked.
May you like
Mrs. Gable pulled a small, unmarked glass vial from her apron. The liquid inside was clear. "She likes her Pinot Noir from the 1990 vintage. I just poured her a fresh glass. I gave her exactly what she’s been giving your father. Just enough to blur her vision and make her legs heavy. She won't be able to climb the stairs."
Julian nodded, a cold, adult realization washing over his eleven-year-old face. He took the pouch and vanished up the back stairwell.
