The words echoed through the massive hall like a loud gunshot, freezing Victoria in her tracks. Her eyes went wide with absolute terror as the reality of her stupid mistake began to crash down on her mind. She looked down at Della, who was still weeping on the floor, and then back at Julian's dark face.
Before Victoria could open her mouth to offer a fake apology, Julian raised his right hand through the air with incredible swiftness. The sound of the impact rang out loud and clear through the quiet house as his open palm struck her face. The slap was so powerful that it forced Victoria's head to the side, sending her blonde hair flying.
Victoria stumbled sideways, her hands immediately flying up to cover her hot, burning cheek in total shock. Tears of pain and anger welled up in her eyes as she stared at the man who had just struck her down without hesitation. She had spent her whole life being pampered by rich people, and no one had ever raised a voice against her.
Victoria: You... you slapped me! You actually hit me over a woman like her?!
Julian: You put my pregnant wife in danger! You broke glass near her face!
Victoria: My father is the largest investor in your company! He will ruin you for this!
Julian: Your father owes my bank fifty million dollars on a delinquent loan that expires at midnight tonight!
Victoria's face turned completely pale, all the color draining away until she looked like a ghost standing in her red dress. She had always boasted about her family's wealth, but she never knew the true financial disaster hiding behind their fancy cars and fancy clothes. Her family's entire empire was actually built on loans provided directly by Julian's firm.
Julian stepped closer until he was standing just inches away from her trembling frame. His voice lowered to a harsh whisper that carried more power than any loud shout ever could in that empty room.
Julian: Get out of my house before I have my guards throw you onto the street like trash!
Victoria: Julian, please... I didn't know she was your wife! It was an accident!
Julian: It was not an accident. It was your wicked heart showing its true colors. Leave right now!
Victoria backed away slowly, her body shaking as she realized that her life of luxury was coming to a painful end. She turned around and ran down the long hallway as fast as her high heels could carry her, leaving behind a trail of tears and ruin. The heavy oak doors slammed shut behind her, cutting off her arrogant presence from the house forever.
Julian did not watch her leave. He turned back around instantly and dropped to his knees beside Della, his eyes filled with deep worry and love. He gently took her trembling hands into his own warm palms and kissed her knuckles softly.
Julian: The paramedics are on their way, my sweet love. Everything is going to be completely fine.
Della: Is our baby going to be okay, Julian? Please tell me the truth.
Julian: Our baby is strong, just like her mother. I will never let anyone hurt you again.