Chapter 7 - Tears of Innocence
Julian turned his back on Victoria entirely, completely dismissing her existence as he dropped gracefully to one knee beside the young maid.
His demeanor changed instantly, his analytical demeanor softening into genuine, protective concern. "Are you alright?" Julian asked quietly, reaching out to gently offer a white linen handkerchief from his pocket.
Maya’s breath hitched as she accepted the cloth, pressing it softly against her eyes as fresh tears spilled over her lashes. These were no longer tears of terrifying panic, but the release of an agonizing burden that had almost crushed her life. Her trembling fingers reached down to clutch her brown leather bag, pulling it away from the glittering necklace that had been used as a weapon against her.
"I... I thought no one would believe me," Maya whispered, her voice breaking into a soft, shuddering sob as she looked up into Julian's eyes. "I thought my life was over..."
"No one is going to touch you," Julian said firmly, his voice carrying the full weight of his authority over the estate. He looked up at two black-suited estate security guards standing near the main entrance and gestured sharply with his hand. "Escort Miss Victoria to her private suite immediately. She is to remain there until the legal council arrives."
Victoria gasped as the two heavy-set guards stepped forward, their faces stoic and unforgiving as they positioned themselves on either side of her.
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"Get your hands off me!" Victoria shrieked, her voice echoing shrilly off the marble walls as she attempted to pull away. "Julian, you can't do this! I am a Sterling! This house belongs to my family!"
"Not anymore," Julian replied coldly, standing up and drawing himself to his full height. "The board will be notified of this footage within the hour. You're finished, Victoria."
