Chapter 10 - The Serpent's GalaThe following night was the annual Sterling Enterprises Charity Gala—a glittering event where Julian planned to make his official play for sole control of the board. He had assumed Clara would be bedridden, too ill to attend.
When the grand double doors of the ballroom swung open, the entire room fell silent.
Clara stepped onto the marble floor wearing a breath-taking dark navy velvet gown that accentuated her pregnant silhouette. Her hair fell in soft, elegant waves, and her skin radiated power.
Julian stood frozen in the center of the room, holding a glass of champagne. His jaw tightened in shock. Beside him, Victoria dropped her cocktail napkin, her face turning pale.
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"Clara..." Julian stammered, rushing toward her as photographers' flashes erupted around them. "What are you doing here? You're far too ill!"
"Ill?" Clara smiled brightly, her voice echoing clearly for the reporters nearby. "I’ve never felt more alive, darling."
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Chapter 11 - Whispers in the DarkDuring the cocktail hour, Clara maneuvered Victoria into the soundproof private VIP lounge near the back of the venue.
Chapter 12 - Storm in the Delivery RoomThe intense psychological pressure and sudden adrenaline triggered severe contractions. Right in the middle of the ballroom, Clara gasped, clutching her lower abdomen as a sharp wave of pain ripped through her.
Chapter 13 - The SwitchWhat Julian didn't know was that Ethan’s team had already intercepted the hospital dispatch twenty minutes prior.
Chapter 14 - Life Amidst DeathInside the delivery suite, the atmosphere was focused and sharp. Clara gritted her teeth, channeling all her anger, all her grief, and all her maternal instinct into every push.
Chapter 15 - The Executioner’s EntranceTen minutes later, the waiting room door opened. Julian walked into the recovery suite, putting on his best grieving face, carrying a leather briefcase containing the forged inheritance documents.
Chapter 16 - The Final ReversalDetective Ethan Cross stepped into the room, followed by four armed federal officers.
