Chapter 3 - The Gala ConfrontationThe conflict erupted at the annual Coastal Preservation Gala held at The Mariner’s House—a lavish cliffside resort. Sebastian Vale, the billionaire CEO of Vale Meridian, stood at the top of the grand staircase, looking down at the crowd like a king surveying his domain.
When he saw Olivia entering beside me, his eyes widened in surprise before settling into a cruel, triumphant smile.
"Olivia," Sebastian announced, his voice carrying across the quiet room. "I wondered when the tide would drag you back."
He descended the stairs, turning his sharp gaze toward my simple blazer. "And this must be the freelancer we rescued from invoice chasing. Tell me, Ethan, did she mention she was my former chief brand strategist—and my ex-fiancée?"
Gasps rippled through the room.
Sebastian stepped closer, leaning in with cold condescension. "She stole confidential company files, violated her NDA, and fled. Walk away from her tonight, Ethan, finish my campaign, and I'll double your fee. Stay beside her, and I'll ruin you."
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I looked at Olivia. Her hands were shaking, but her chin was held high.
"I'm staying beside her," I said clearly.
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