Chapter 3 — The Perfect Engagement Party
Three days later, the Vale Foundation hosted its annual charity gala.
The mansion glittered beneath crystal chandeliers.
Politicians.
Executives.
Journalists.
Board members.
Nearly everyone who mattered in the city attended.
Cassandra floated through the ballroom in a silver designer gown, smiling gracefully as guests congratulated her on the upcoming wedding.
"You and Marcus are the perfect couple."
She accepted every compliment with practiced elegance.
Marcus smiled beside her.
Held her hand.
Even kissed her cheek.
She had no idea that every camera in the ballroom was secretly connected to the mansion's media system.
When the orchestra finished its final piece, Marcus stepped onto the stage.
He lifted a champagne glass.
"I'd like to thank everyone for celebrating with us tonight."
The room applauded.
"And before we announce our wedding date, I'd like to share a short video about family."
The ballroom lights dimmed.
A giant screen illuminated behind him.
Cassandra smiled confidently.
Until the first frame appeared.
The security footage.
Lily kneeling beside the dog bowl.
A ripple of confusion spread through the guests.
Then silence.
Complete silence.
Cassandra's smile vanished.
"No..." she whispered.
The next clip played.
Her cold voice echoed through the ballroom.
"If you're hungry, eat where animals eat."
Someone gasped.
Another guest lowered her wine glass.
A board member quietly muttered, "My God..."
Marcus never looked at the screen.
He watched Cassandra instead.
May you like
For the first time since meeting her...
She looked afraid.
