Elena sprinted across the polished floor, sliding down beside her sobbing little girl.
Elena: Don't be afraid, sweetie. Mommy's right here.
She wrapped her arms tightly around Maya's small body, shielding her from Julian's tall frame.
Maya buried her face in the soft satin fabric of Elena's green dress.
Julian: You need to discipline your child if you expect to live in my home.
Elena: You will never put your hands on my daughter again!
Julian scoffed loudly, raising his chin with cold arrogant indifference.
Julian: Remember who pays for your life now, Elena.
Elena: My daughter's safety is worth more than all of your money.
Julian stepped forward, reaching out to grab Elena's arm to pull her up forcedly.
Elena reacted instantly, utilizing the advanced defensive training she had learned years ago.
She spun her body around, driving a powerful front kick straight into Julian's chest with total force.
The heavy blow caught him completely off guard, breaking his balance instantly.
Julian flew backward through the air, crashing hard onto his back across the polished marble floor.
The entire ballroom went dead silent as guests gasped in total disbelief.
Julian lay flat on the floor, gasping for breath as his expensive tuxedo coat lay rumpled beneath him.
Elena stood tall over him, keeping Maya safely tucked behind her back.
Elena: Our engagement is over, Julian.
Julian: You just destroyed your entire financial future, you crazy woman!
Elena: No, I just saved my daughter from a cruel tyrant.
Julian struggled to sit up, holding his bruised chest while glaring up at Elena.
Two security guards in dark suits hurried over from the main entrance of the ballroom.
Julian: Throw this violent woman out of my house immediately!
Elena: Touch me and your guards will face the exact same legal outcome as you.
The guards hesitated, looking at the fierce determination burning brightly inside Elena's eyes.