“Ladies and gentlemen,” Harrison’s powerful voice echoed through the microphone system, resonating in every corner of the vast room. “Please welcome the majority shareholder, owner, and Global Chief Executive Officer of Vanguard Dominion… President Clara Vaughn.”
The entire room held its breath as I stepped through the grand doors.
The light from the crystal chandeliers shimmered across my silk gown and ignited the deep blue fire within the diamonds around my neck. I walked with absolute grace and commanding authority, my gaze fixed straight ahead. Shockwaves rippled through the crowd. Murmurs erupted instantly as powerful men and women parted like the Red Sea to clear a path for me. 
Adrian’s champagne glass slipped from his fingers, smashing violently against the marble floor. His face turned completely pale, the color draining from his skin until he looked like a ghost. His eyes bulged in utter disbelief as he stared at me.
“C-Clara…?” Adrian stammered, his voice trembling so hard it was barely audible. “No… this is impossible. What… what are you doing here? How did you get those clothes? Who let you in?!”
Vanessa sneered, pulling on Adrian’s arm. “Adrian, who is this woman? Is this the pathetic wife you were talking about? Why is she wearing fake diamonds? Security! Throw her out!”…
