Chapter 9: The Gala Confrontation
The Grand Ballroom of the Plaza Hotel was a sea of flashing cameras, diamond necklaces, and whispered gossip. The tech industry's elite had gathered to witness the unveiling of Project Apex, but most were secretly there to gawk at me—the eighteen-year-old who had overthrown a corporate dynasty overnight.
I stood near the main stage, wearing a breathtaking, floor-length crimson gown that hugged my silhouette, radiating an aura of absolute authority. My hair was styled in sharp, elegant waves, and I wore a simple silver pendant that had once belonged to Clara.
"You look formidable, Emily," Mr. Whitmore said, handing me a glass of sparkling water. "The press is eating from the palm of your hand."
"Let's hope the investors feel the same way," I replied, scanning the crowd.
Suddenly, a ripple of murmurs spread through the entrance of the ballroom. The crowd parted, and my jaw tightened.
Walking down the grand staircase, dripping in borrowed diamonds and a scandalous black designer dress, was Madison. Her arm was linked with Julian Thorne. She looked smug, dangerous, and desperate.
They made a beeline straight for me.
"Emily," Julian sneered, his smile entirely devoid of warmth. "A lovely party. Though I’m surprised the board allowed a child to play host to such a critical evening."
"Mr. Thorne," I replied smoothly, not breaking eye contact. "I’m surprised security let you in. I was under the impression we had a strict policy against admitting corporate vultures."
Madison let out a sharp, mocking laugh. "Still pretending to be the boss, Emily? Enjoy the dress. After tonight, you’ll be begging to work in my mailroom."
I looked Madison up and down, noting the frantic, nervous energy behind her eyes. "You're wearing last season's couture, Madison. And it doesn't fit properly. Are you struggling to make rent?"
Her face flushed crimson. She opened her mouth to scream an insult, but Julian squeezed her arm, silencing her.
"We shall see who is laughing at the end of the night, Miss Harrington," Julian whispered menacingly. "I look forward to the demonstration."
May you like
As they walked away, I caught Arthur’s eye across the room. He gave a subtle, almost imperceptible nod. Madison had used her old biometric fingerprint to unlock the side access door to the server corridor just moments before. Julian's operative was inside.
Everything was going exactly according to plan.
