Chapter 7 - The Gala of Reckoning
The grand ballroom of the Maple Ridge Country Club was blindingly bright. Crystal chandeliers reflected off hundreds of champagne glasses as the city's elite gathered for the Northgate Neurology Annual Gala.
Vanessa Cole stood near the stage, looking radiant in a shimmering white gown, her hand resting possessively on Mark’s arm. Mark wore a brand-new, custom-tailored tuxedo—bought, no doubt, with Claire’s loan money. He was laughing, clinking glasses with board members, completely convinced he had escaped his old life.
Suddenly, the heavy double doors of the ballroom swung open.
Claire walked in.
She wore a breathtaking, midnight-blue silk dress that highlighted her elegance, her hair styled perfectly, her posture radiant with an undeniable power. Walking beside her, dressed in a sharp navy blazer, was her twenty-year-old son, Toby, who had rushed home from college the moment his mother told him the truth.
Mark’s champagne glass froze halfway to his mouth. His face drained of color as he saw his wife walking into the room like a queen.
"Claire?" Mark stammered, stepping away from Vanessa as Claire approached their circle. "What... what are you doing here? You don't belong here."
"I belong anywhere my money goes, Mark," Claire said, her voice smooth and carrying across the surrounding guests.
May you like
Vanessa stepped forward, her eyes narrowing into vicious slits. "Mrs. Bennett, this is a private event for donors. Security will escort you out if you cause a scene."
"Oh, I'm not causing a scene, Vanessa," Claire smiled beautifully, turning toward the stage where Dr. David Vance was standing with a microphone. "I'm just here to witness the presentation of the annual transparency report."
