Chapter 10 - The Grand Gala
One year later.
The grand ballroom of the city’s finest hotel was decorated in shimmering gold and white. Tonight was the annual Vanguard Global Philanthropy Summit, the most prestigious event of the corporate year.
Cassidy arrived wearing an breathtaking emerald green gown that elegantly caught the chandelier light. She walked with effortless grace, radiating confidence, warmth, and absolute authority.
By her side was Arthur, along with her new executive team—people selected not for their titles or wealthy backgrounds, but for their integrity and competence.
As she moved through the crowd, greeting foreign ambassadors, technology innovators, and charitable leaders, she noticed a commotion near the entrance.
A woman in a faded dress was trying to slip past security into the main hall. It was Jessica.
Having been blacklisted by high-society circles and abandoned by her wealthy peers after the Vance scandal, Jessica had spent the last year struggling to find steady work. Seeing the news of the grand gala, she had tried to sneak in, hoping for a moment to apologize to Cassidy and beg for a job.
Security officers quickly intercepted her, escorting her back toward the doors.
As Jessica was being led away, her eyes met Cassidy’s across the grand ballroom.
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Cassidy didn't glare. She didn't look triumphant. She simply gave a polite, distant nod—the look one gives to a complete stranger who has no bearing on their universe—before turning back to continue her conversation with a UN delegate.
Jessica hung her head in total humiliation as the heavy brass doors closed behind her, shutting out the bright, warm world she could have been a part of if she had chosen kindness over cruelty.
