The massive doors burst open with a loud thud that shook the chandelier light overhead. A mature, broad-shouldered American man in a dark tuxedo walked into the ballroom. His jaw was set like granite, and his dark eyes burned with pure rage.
Behind him stood four security guards in black suits, along with a prominent divorce lawyer carrying a heavy leather briefcase. Marcus looked past the crowd of guests straight toward his daughter.
Marcus: DON'T TOUCH MY DAUGHTER!
Evelyn froze, her smile fading as she looked at the powerful man walking toward her. The elder Mr. Vance, Julian's father, gasped as he recognized the billionaire investor standing in his living room.
Richard: Marcus Sterling? What are you doing in my house?
Marcus: I am here to protect my daughter from your garbage family!
Chloe stepped forward, holding her white gown up as she blocked Marcus's path near the American flag banner.
Chloe: Sir, you can't just walk in here! She is a thief who stole from us!
Before Chloe could say another word, Marcus stepped forward and forcefully slapped her across the face. The sharp crack echoed through the massive room, causing Chloe to stagger back in total shock.
Chloe: Ah! You hit me!
Marcus: You tore my daughter's dress while she is pregnant with my grandchild!
Evelyn: How dare you strike my daughter in our home!
Marcus: You are lucky I don't burn this whole house down right now, Evelyn!
Julian ran over to Chloe, helping his sister stand up while staring at Marcus in complete disbelief. He had never seen the legendary oil tycoon in person, let alone realized he was Clara's estranged father.