Chapter 6 - The Unforgiven Feast
That evening, the annual Sterling Autumn Charity Banquet was held in the estate’s grand hall. Over two hundred senators, judges, and corporate magnates filled the ballroom, their champagne glasses clinking beneath crystal chandeliers. Victoria wore emerald green, basking in Eleanor’s side, assuring society reporters that the upcoming wedding would proceed as planned.
Suddenly, the double mahogany doors swung open.
A collective gasp swept through the hall. Julian Sterling entered, immaculate in a bespoke charcoal tuxedo. But he was not alone.
On his arm walked Clara Hayes. She wore no servant’s apron tonight, but a simple, elegant ivory silk maternity gown that complemented her natural grace. Her hair was swept up softly, revealing her delicate features and calm, luminous eyes. She wore no jewelry except for a thin platinum bracelet Julian had placed on her wrist an hour before.
Eleanor stepped forward, her champagne glass nearly shattering in her grip. “Julian! What is the meaning of this insolence?”
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Julian led Clara to the center of the ballroom, his gaze sweeping over the elite crowd until every murmur died away.
“The meaning is simple, Mother,” Julian announced, his deep voice carrying into every corner of the room. “I am introducing the future Mrs. Sterling and the mother of my child.”
