Vanessa jerked her arm free and glared at Sofia with disbelief.
"Do you know who I am?" she screamed.
The room remained silent.
Sofia stood her ground.
"I know you're trying to hurt someone who can't defend herself."
Vanessa stepped closer.
"You're just a maid."
"I can have you fired before this party ends."
Sofia swallowed nervously.
She knew losing her job would mean struggling to support her younger brother through college.
But she refused to move.
"If protecting her costs me my job..."
"...then it's worth it."
Guests exchanged stunned glances.
Some quietly applauded under their breath.
Others reached for their phones, unsure whether security should be called.
Then another voice echoed across the ballroom.
"Release her."
Everyone turned toward the entrance.
Walking confidently across the marble floor was William Hayes, CEO of Hayes Industries and the evening's host.
Dressed in a perfectly tailored black tuxedo, William carried himself with calm authority.
He stopped beside Sofia and gently placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.
Then he looked directly at Vanessa.
His expression contained no anger.
Only disappointment.
Vanessa immediately forced a nervous smile.
"William..."
"I was just trying to—"
He raised one hand.
Silence.
She suddenly realized the situation had become far more serious than she had imagined.