Chapter 11 - The Mask Slips
As the classical music swelled through the ballroom, Clara slipped away toward the service elevator to deliver an extra tray of champagne to the VIP lounge. The hallway was quiet, far removed from the laughter and chatter of the gala guests below. Suddenly, a heavy hand grabbed her shoulder, spinning her around and pinning her against the wood-paneled wall. It was Julian. His manicured fingers gripped her wrist painfully, his eyes wild with desperation as he demanded to know where the missing ledger was hidden. Clara struggled against him, her breath catching in her throat, refusing to show fear even as tears pricked her eyes. Julian hissed insults, his facade of high-society charm completely shattering under the weight of his paranoia. Just as Julian raised his hand to strike her, a cold, authoritative voice cut through the quiet corridor like a razor blade. ""Take your hands off her, Julian."" Arthur stood at the end of the hallway, his posture rigid, his dark eyes burning with an intense, restrained fury that made even Julian step back in involuntary terror.
