“C-Clara…?” Adrian whispered, his voice barely audible. “That’s not possible…”
I walked toward him, the crowd instinctively stepping aside, creating a clear path. Each step felt deliberate, measured—not rushed, not hesitant.
When I stopped in front of him, I let my eyes travel over him slowly.
The same way he had done to me earlier.
Only this time, there was no admiration in my gaze.
Only quiet judgment.
“Good evening, Adrian,” I said, my voice calm but cold enough to cut through the air. “I apologize for being late.”
A faint smile touched my lips.
“My husband burned the dress I originally planned to wear.”
A murmur spread through the nearby guests.
Confusion.
Shock.
Adrian’s breathing became uneven. “W-what… what are you saying…?” he stammered. “You… you’re the Chairwoman?”
I tilted my head slightly.
“The company you’ve been so proud to represent?” I said softly. “Yes. It belongs to me.”
Vanessa stepped back instinctively, her confidence collapsing in seconds. “M-Madame Vaughn, I didn’t know—he approached me first! I swear, I had no idea you were his wife!”
Her voice trembled as she distanced herself from him, as if proximity alone might destroy her.
Adrian dropped to his knees.
Right there, in front of everyone.
The same man who had looked down on me, mocked me, and humiliated me just hours before now bowed his head, his pride completely shattered.
“Clara, please!” he begged, his voice breaking. “I didn’t mean any of it! I was drunk—I wasn’t thinking! I love you! We’re married—you can’t do this!”
He reached toward me, desperate, but two guards stepped forward instantly, blocking him.
I took a small step back.
“Don’t touch my dress,” I said sharply. “You might ruin it… just like you said earlier.”
His hand froze in the air.
I turned slightly. “Mr. Blackwood.”
“Yes, Madame,” he replied immediately.
“Terminate his position. Effective now. Cancel his promotion, revoke all privileges, and ensure his name is blacklisted across every partner corporation.”
