Victoria's father pushed his way through the crowd toward the stage.
Mr. Sterling was a tall man with gray hair and an expensive suit.
"Julian, let us talk about this in private!" Mr. Sterling begged loudly.
"We can fix this without destroying our business partnership!"
Julian looked down at the old businessman with calm eyes.
"There is nothing left to talk about, Mr. Sterling," Julian replied coldly.
"You raised a bully who abuses defenseless people for fun."
"I will not share my life or my fortune with someone like her."
Victoria ran toward Julian and grabbed his coat sleeve tightly.
"Julian, please forgive me!" she cried out, sobbing real tears now.
"I was just stressed out about the wedding planning details!"
"I promise I will go to anger management classes tomorrow!"
Julian looked down at her hands and gently removed her fingers.
"You are only sorry because everyone saw who you really are."
He turned away from her and walked down the stage steps.
He walked straight toward Elena, who was standing quietly near the back.
The crowd cleared a wide path for him as he moved forward.
Elena looked up in surprise as the wealthy heir stopped before her.
"Elena, you protected my nephew when no one else would," Julian said softly.
"You showed more bravery and grace tonight than anyone in this room."
He turned to his head of security and gave a clear command.
"Escort Miss Sterling and her family out of my house immediately."
Two large security guards stepped up to Victoria and her parents.
"Please follow us to the exit, ladies and gentlemen," the guard said.
Victoria screamed and kicked as she was led toward the back doors.
Her bright emerald green dress dragged messily along the floor.
The heavy oak doors slammed shut behind the Sterling family forever.
A quiet cheer broke out among the mansion staff in the back row.
The wealthy guests began to clap slowly, agreeing with Julian's choice.
Justice had been served in the most dramatic way possible.
Elena took a deep breath, feeling a massive weight lift off her chest.
She held little Leo close, knowing he was finally safe from harm.
Julian smiled warmly at Elena, his dark eyes showing true respect.