Chapter 3 - The Grip of Emerald
Before Victoria could call for the estate security, a flash of deep emerald green cut through the circle of onlookers. Claire Vance, a striking blonde with sleek hair and sharp, calculating eyes, pushed through the crowd. Her fitted designer dress swayed as she marched directly toward the kneeling maid, her high heels clicking loudly against the marble.
Claire did not hesitate. She reached down, grabbed Emma firmly by her chestnut hair, and yanked her upward off the floor. Emma cried out in pain, her hands reaching up to grasp Claire’s wrist in a desperate attempt to lessen the pull, but Claire’s grip was unyielding.
“Get out, you lying little maid!” Claire hissed, her tone dripping with venomous disdain as she dragged Emma toward the heavy mahogany ballroom doors.
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The guests parted quickly, clearing an open aisle toward the exit. Emma struggled to keep her footing on the slick marble, her knees buckling as Claire pulled her mercilessly. To the rest of the room, Claire appeared as the loyal family friend stepping in to clean up a disgraceful scene and protect the Sterling family's dignity.
Victoria watched them go from the head of the table, her arm still wrapped securely around Leo. Her quick temper slowly gave way to a cold, analytical suspicion as she watched Claire’s overly aggressive reaction to a simple housemaid.
