Chapter 2: The Hand That Never Landed
The ballroom fell into a silence so complete that even the musicians lowered their instruments.
Emma's fingers remained wrapped around Vanessa Blackwell's wrist.
Not tightly enough to hurt.
Just firmly enough to stop the slap.
Vanessa stared at the young maid as though she couldn't comprehend what had happened.
"You actually touched me," she hissed.
Emma slowly released her grip.
"I stopped you from hurting her."
A chorus of whispers rippled across the room.
Several guests instinctively reached for their phones, secretly recording the confrontation.
Vanessa noticed the cameras and forced a laugh.
"You've just destroyed your own future."
She stepped closer until only inches separated them.
"Do you know who I am?"
Emma answered calmly.
"No, ma'am."
"My fiancé practically owns this city."
Emma simply shook her head.
"That still doesn't give you the right to strike anyone."
The response ignited Vanessa's temper.
She spun toward the event staff.
"Security!"
Two guards hesitated.
Neither moved.
The hesitation only embarrassed Vanessa further.
"I said remove her!"
Before anyone could react, Eleanor gently placed a trembling hand on Emma's arm.
"It's all right, dear."
Emma looked down.
"No, ma'am. It isn't."
Eleanor smiled sadly.
"I've lived long enough to know that pride usually defeats itself."
Vanessa laughed loudly.
"Listen to the old woman giving life lessons."
The ballroom doors slowly opened behind her.
A tall silver-haired gentleman entered without ceremony, accompanied by only one discreet assistant.
He wore an impeccably tailored midnight-blue suit, his expression calm but unreadable.
Several board members immediately straightened.
One by one, they lowered their heads respectfully.
Vanessa never turned around.
She was too busy pointing at Emma.
"Fire her."
The gentleman spoke before anyone else could.
"I'm afraid..."
His deep voice echoed through the silent ballroom.
"...that won't be possible."
Vanessa froze.
The voice sounded strangely familiar.
Slowly...
May you like
She turned around.
And every ounce of confidence drained from her face.
