The bright crystal chandeliers of the grand estate hall reflected off the polished white marble floor. Dozens of wealthy guests stood around, sipping expensive champagne and whispering in hushed, cruel tones. In the center of the room, Vivian stood frozen, clutching her stomach. Her blue satin dress was ruined, ripped open from behind by the very women who were supposed to welcome her into the family.
Margarethe: You think you can fool us, Vivian? You've been lying since the day you met my son!
Chloe: Tear it open, Mom! Search her right now! I know she hid the family heirloom under that cheap dress!
Vivian gasped as the heavy fabric tore further, exposing her skin to the cold air and the cruel stares of the crowd. Tears welled in her eyes as she turned her head, searching desperately for the one person who was supposed to protect her.
Vivian: Julian, please! Stop them! Tell them to get their hands off me!
Julian stepped closer, but he didn't pull his mother or sister away. Instead, his fingers dig firmly into Vivian's shoulders, locking her in place.
Julian: Vivian, just let them search! We'll sort this out afterwards!
Vivian: Are you insane? I'm pregnant! They are hurting me!
Julian: If you have nothing to hide, then just stay still and prove it! Stop making a scene in front of everyone!
Margarethe: See? Even my son knows what kind of thief you are. Strip it off her, Chloe!
A sharp fabric-ripping sound echoed through the silent, massive room, followed by the gasp of fifty wealthy spectators. Vivian trembled, feeling completely betrayed by the man she loved. With a desperate surge of force, she shoved Julian away, breaking free from his tight grip. Her heart pounded like a hammer in her chest as she stumbled back against a marble pillar, pulling out her phone with shaking, ice-cold fingers.
Julian: Vivian, don't walk away from me! Put that phone down!
Vivian: Get your hands off me! Don't touch me!
She dialed the only number that mattered, bringing the phone to her wet cheek as the crowd sneered.
Vivian: Dad... it's time. They've gone too far.
Dad: Stay right where you are, sweetheart. My men are already inside the building.
Vivian lowered the phone slowly, her trembling stopping as a sudden, cold calmness took over her chest, leaving the entire room on the brink of an absolute disaster.