Chapter 5 - The Gala of ReckoningThe annual Nashville Business Gala was the event of the season. Daniel Mercer and Jessica Lane attended, hoping to secure investments to save their struggling company. They spread rumors that Claire had married a helpless invalid for money.
Midway through the evening, Jessica took the microphone during a charity announcement, sneering toward Claire's table. "We should all applaud Claire Bennett for her... sacrifice in marrying for money."
The room fell awkward and quiet.
Suddenly, the side doors opened. Nicholas Vance stood up from his wheelchair in front of the entire elite crowd. He walked steadily across the floor, tall, imposing, and completely healed, stopping right beside Claire.
The room erupted in shock.
"My wife married me when I had nothing to offer but my word," Nicholas said, his voice echoing through the microphone. "Unlike Mr. Mercer and Miss Lane, who are currently under federal investigation for corporate sabotage and fraud."
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Federal agents walked into the ballroom, presenting arrest warrants for Daniel and Jessica. As handcuffs were clicked onto their wrists, Daniel looked at Claire in utter ruin, while Jessica broke down in tears.
Claire looked at them without an ounce of regret as they were led away.
