RETURNED FOR VENGEANCE

Public Reckoning

Flashbulbs exploded in the ballroom, illuminating the shock etched into Julian and Chloe’s pale faces. Camera shutters clicked wildly as reporters scrambled to capture the moment: the city’s top corporate titan hand-in-hand with the woman Julian had discarded.

"Lead architect?" Chloe sneered, recovering her composure enough to step forward, her voice dripping with poison. "Dante, you’ve been tricked. Aria has no credentials under her name. She’s nothing more than a failed housewife."

Julian cleared his throat, forcing an arrogant smirk. "She’s right, Mr Vance. If you're trusting her with your coastal bid, Vance Enterprises is throwing its money away."

Aria took a single step forward, her eyes locked on Julian. Her posture was erect, radiating a cold authority that sent a visible shiver down Chloe’s spine.

"My name wasn't on those documents because you hid behind my work, Julian," Aria said calmly, her voice carrying absolute conviction across the silent room. "Every winning proposal your firm submitted in three years was drafted by my hands. You know it. I know it."

She paused, letting the murmurs of the surrounding elite build to a crescendo.

"And at next week's government tender," Aria added, her gaze icy, "I will personally show the entire board who the real talent was."

Dante wrapped a hand around Aria's waist, pulling her flush against his side. "We’ve said our piece. Enjoy the rest of your evening, Julian. It will be your last one on top."

With that, Dante guided Aria out of the ballroom, leaving Julian and Chloe surrounded by flashing cameras and demanding journalists.