Chapter 4 - The Shadow in the WingsVanessa recovered quickly.
She forced a smile.
"Julian, darling."
She stepped toward him.
"This girl caused a scene. I was simply trying to maintain order."
Julian said nothing.
Vanessa laughed nervously.
"You know how difficult these staff members can be."
Clara lowered her eyes.
She had no desire to become part of a battle between wealthy people.
But Julian wasn't listening to Vanessa.
He was studying Clara.
"Did she try to strike you?"
Clara hesitated.
"I don't want trouble."
Julian's jaw tightened.
"That wasn't my question."
Clara looked at him.
"Yes."
A murmur moved through the room.
Vanessa's expression changed.
"That's ridiculous."
Julian raised one hand.
The ballroom fell silent again.
"Did you raise your hand at her?"
Vanessa stared at him.
"I was angry."
"That's not an answer."
Her confidence began to crack.
"No."
Julian's eyes remained cold.
"Then why are you afraid to say it?"
Vanessa suddenly understood something terrifying.
Julian wasn't going to protect her.
For the first time that night, she looked around the ballroom and realized the people who had spent the evening flattering her were now watching her with uncertainty.
Her protection had always come from influence.
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But Julian owned the room.
And now he had chosen a side.
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