Chapter 5 - The Masquerade Ball
Two weeks after the catastrophic boardroom ambush, the annual Oakridge Charity Gala took place inside the historic Grand Ballroom downtown.
It was the premier social event of the entire year, where local elites, corrupt politicians, and wealthy heirs gathered under crystal chandeliers to flaunt their designer gowns and million-dollar jewelry.
Chad Sterling and his ruined parents attended out of desperate social obligation, hoping against hope to put on a brave public face despite the vicious rumors of their impending bankruptcy swirling through polite society.
Marcus had strictly instructed Chad to stay completely away from Leo Vance under any circumstances, terrified of provoking further retaliation from the merciless billionaire.
Leo arrived escorted by Chloe Davies, who absolutely stunned the entire room wearing an emerald silk gown that turned every head the moment they stepped through the arched doorway.
Leo wore a classic, tailored tuxedo that fit him impeccably, carrying himself with an effortless, natural grace that far exceeded his tender years.
Whispers immediately rippled through the crowded ballroom as the glittering elite recognized the young man who had single-handedly toppled Sterling Enterprises with a single phone call.
Chad, standing isolated by the champagne fountain holding a glass of cheap sparkling cider, watched them enter with eyes burning with alcoholic rage and bitter humiliation.
His former social standing was entirely gone; even casual acquaintances now politely looked away or turned their backs whenever he approached.
Unable to control his boiling, toxic anger any longer, Chad shoved his way aggressively through the crowd and intercepted Leo near the foot of the grand marble staircase.
‘Enjoying your little victory lap around the corpses of better people, aren't you, Leo?’ Chad snarled, his voice trembling violently with suppressed fury.
Leo turned slowly, looking at Chad with calm pity rather than retaliatory anger.
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‘I’m just here to enjoy the evening with a friend, Chad. You should try enjoying yourself instead of obsessing over things you can't control,’ Leo replied evenly.
Chad’s vision flashed red with pure rage. Snatching a full glass of deep red wine from a passing waiter's silver tray, Chad raised his arm with malicious intent, aiming directly to ruin Chloe’s expensive dress and publicly humiliate Leo once again in front of high society.
