Chapter 2: The Truth No One Expected
Richard slowly helped Claire stand beside him.
His voice softened.
"You don't have to hide anymore."
Claire looked terrified.
"I promised Mom..."
"I know."
He gently squeezed her hand.
"And I should never have let you carry that burden alone."
The room fell silent again.
Richard faced the guests.
"Most of you believe this young woman has worked in my home as a servant for the last four years."
He paused.
"That was never her real role."
Confused whispers spread across the ballroom.
Richard continued.
"Claire Elizabeth Morgan is my late daughter Victoria's only child."
Gasps erupted throughout the hall.
Vanessa's face drained of color.
Ethan stared in disbelief.
"No."
Richard nodded slowly.
"Yes."
"Claire isn't an employee."
"She is my granddaughter."
The ballroom exploded with stunned voices.
One elderly board member nearly dropped his champagne glass.
"But... everyone thought your daughter died without children."
Richard closed his eyes.
"My daughter married against my wishes."
"When she passed away, Claire refused to reveal her identity."
"She wanted to earn respect without my name."
Claire lowered her head.
"I didn't want anyone treating me differently."
May you like
Instead...
They treated her worse.
