Section 2 – The Mother’s Claim
224 Words
The applause shattered — then froze like ice.
“I object.”
The voice cut through the room like a blade.
Maria Gonzalez stepped forward from the VIP section, arm linked with a young man.
Madonna beauty in a black lace gown that shimmered like spilled ink, eyes hollow but burning with fierce maternal pride.
Her diamond earrings caught the light, but her hands trembled.
“The wolf-slayer does not deserve the crown. My son does.”
Lin Zhao.
Black tuxedo tailored to perfection, black hair swept back with effortless elegance, charity smile that didn’t reach his eyes.
He stood tall, but his fingers twitched at his side — a tell.
He met Ruoxi’s gaze across the room.
Amber on amber.
A flicker — recognition? longing? fear? — then gone, like a candle snuffed in wind.
Elder Ravi’s smile never wavered, but his eyes narrowed a fraction.
“And who is this son, Madam Gonzalez? The Lin Foundation is known for its… generosity.”
Maria’s grip tightened on Lin’s arm, knuckles white.
“Lin Zhao. Chairman. Savior of orphans. Builder of schools. The true heir to the border’s future.”
Ruoxi’s lips curved — not a smile, but a warning carved in ice.
Isabella’s hand brushed her thigh holster, fingers dancing over the grip.
The silver crown hovered in Ravi’s hands, catching every light.
- Writer
