Chapter 3 - Unmasking the ImposterThe silence in the ballroom grew deafening. Richard stood up so fast his chair screeched against the polished floor, towering over Victoria with a dark, threatening look in his eyes.
"Is this true?" Richard demanded, his voice trembling with a mixture of rage and betrayal. For months, Victoria had convinced him she was carrying his heir, using the fake pregnancy to trap him into an engagement, secure his wealth, and edge out his legitimate family members.
"Richard, don't be a fool! You're going to believe a random child over me—your fiancée?" Victoria stammered, her voice pitching up in hysteria as she desperately tried to salvage her dignity. She stepped back, but the circle of wealthy guests closed in, whispering and recording the spectacle on their smartphones.
A woman stepped forward from the crowd, holding her phone aloft. "The child isn't lying, Mr. Vance. My security camera faces the hallway of the VIP suite. Here is the exact footage of Ms. Victoria stuffing a plush pillow under her designer dress less than an hour ago."
May you like
The color drained entirely from Victoria's face. She looked around the room, realizing every escape route was blocked. With a shriek of frustration, she ripped the golden silk gown at the seams, letting the bulky cushion drop heavily to the floor with a soft thud.
"You're a monster, Victoria," Richard whispered, his heart shattering as the months of manipulation became crystal clear. "Get out of my sight. Before I have you thrown out by the police."
