Chapter 8 - Playing the FoolClara returned home that evening acting weak. She limped into the living room, clinging to the doorframes, exaggerating a tremble in her fingers.
Julian and Victoria were in the study, pretending to go over quarterly financial statements. When Julian saw Clara stagger into the entryway, he immediately rushed to her side, acting the part of the devoted, frantic husband.
"Clara! What’s wrong? Are you feeling dizzy?" Julian asked, holding her shoulders gently.
"My chest... feels so heavy, Julian," Clara murmured, letting her head fall against his chest. "I feel so tired... so faint..."
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Across the room, Victoria’s eyes sparkled with ruthless satisfaction. She subtly adjusted her silver wristwatch, noting the time.
"I'll carry you up to bed, my love," Julian whispered softly into her ear. "Just rest. I'll take care of everything."
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Chapter 9 - The Ghost in the SafeAt midnight, the mansion was silent save for the low hum of the air conditioning. Julian was sound asleep beside her, lulled into a sense of total victory by Clara’s convincing performance.
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.
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.
