Chapter 6 - The Viper's Trap
Friday evening arrived. The Grand Ballroom of the Plaza Hotel was bathed in gold light and crystalline chandeliers.
Richard wore his finest rented tuxedo. Olivia was draped in an expensive silk dress paid for on a credit card Richard could barely afford. Vanessa strutted beside them, wearing a dazzling red gown, recording video stories for her thousands of new followers gained from the viral cake video.
The executives of Vance & Partners gathered around, raising glasses of vintage champagne.
"To Richard!" the CEO declared. "For bringing Sterling Equity to the table!"
Richard puffed out his chest. "Thank you, everyone. Hard work and cutting dead weight out of my life brought me here."
At 8:00 PM sharply, the heavy oak doors of the ballroom swung open.
Four tall security guards in pristine black suits entered, clearing a path. Behind them walked Julian Sterling, commanding the room with effortless authority.
Beside Julian walked a woman.
The room fell dead silent.
She wore a custom emerald-green silk gown that flowed like liquid envy around her ankles. Diamonds sparkled at her throat and ears. Her dark hair was styled in an elegant, royal updo, exposing a neck held high with majestic confidence. Her posture was flawless, her expression serene and unshakeable.
It was Maya.
May you like
Richard dropped his champagne glass. It shattered against the marble floor, spraying sparkling wine across his shoes.
"M-Maya?!" Richard stuttered, his face turning pale white. "What... what are you doing here?! How did you get in here? Security! Get this woman out of here! She’s my psychotic ex-wife!"
