Chapter 4 - The Authority Steps Forward
"That's enough, Victoria."
The voice was low, deep, and carried a steady, unyielding authority that instantly cut through the dramatic noise of the lobby.
From the shadow of the doorway leading to the private estate office stepped Julian Vance—the thirty-eight-year-old managing director of the family estate trust. Draped in an immaculate, custom-tailored black tuxedo with a crisp white shirt and a silk bow tie, Julian possessed a calm, analytical presence that contrasted sharply with Victoria's explosive emotion. He held his hands casually in his pockets as he walked with measured, unhurried steps across the marble floor, stopping directly between Victoria and the weeping maid.
Victoria’s posture stiffened slightly, though her mask of righteous fury remained firmly intact. "Julian! Thank goodness you're here. This girl tried to steal the Sterling Diamond! Call security immediately and have her arrested!"
Julian didn't look at Victoria. Instead, his dark eyes glanced down at Maya, taking in the bruised red outline on her cheek, her tear-stained face, and the terrified, innocent shock in her posture. He then looked down at the brown leather bag and the diamond necklace resting inside it.
"Did you call the police yet, Victoria?" Julian asked smoothly, his voice devoid of any warmth or distress.
"I was just about to!" Victoria insisted, gesturing toward the bag. "The proof is right here! What more do you need?"
Julian raised his right hand, making a calm, decisive gesture toward the grand marble fireplace at the far end of the lobby. "Security footage."
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Victoria froze mid-breath, the color draining faintly from her lips. "What?"
"The estate underwent a complete technological audit three days ago," Julian said, his eyes turning slowly to lock onto Victoria with a terrifying, icy clarity. "Every corridor, entryway, and preparation room in this mansion is monitored in high-definition."
