The hotel ballroom was packed for the anniversary gala.
The instant Sophie stepped onto the stage, applause filled the room. She wore a custom dance costume, and her movements were fluid and graceful.
Beneath the stage lights, she was still the family's pampered princess, the girl everyone envied.
Marcus watched from his wheelchair, growing paler by the second.
At events like this, Marcus used to be the center of attention. He played the piano, spoke on behalf of the Group, and chatted effortlessly with major clients.
Now every look sent his way was full of pity, and people's eyes kept drifting toward the blanket over his lap.
Someone whispered, "Isn't that Marcus Bennett? I heard he had both legs amputated."
"That's awful. He used to have everything going for him."
"He lost his le
