Chapter 9 - The Dallas Gala
The Grand Ballroom of the Dallas Country Club was a spectacle of crystal chandeliers, flowing champagne, and Texas oil aristocracy.
Richard Caldwell stood near the podium, looking exhausted but proud, while Elaine basked in the flashbulbs of society photographers. Madison looked ethereal in an emerald silk gown, though beneath her makeup, she was terrified.
Julian Vance was by her side, holding her arm with possessive tightness. In his breast pocket rested the leather folder containing the power of attorney documents, waiting for Madison’s signature during the private toast.
Nora, dressed in the country club's catering uniform, moved unobtrusively among the banquet staff. Thanks to Richard’s trust in her, she had secured access to the private VIP lounge behind the ballroom.
At 9:00 PM, Julian steered Madison toward the secluded lounge.
"It's time, darling," Julian whispered smoothly, closing the mahogany doors behind them. "Just sign the documents, take your special tonic, and we can announce our foundation to the press."
He set a crystal flute of champagne on the table and pulled out the legal papers. From his pocket, he discreetly slipped a tiny glass vial, shaking two drops into the champagne.
"Drink up, Maddie. To our future."
Madison stared at the bubbling glass, her hands shaking. "Julian... do you really love me?"
Julian chuckled, an impatient edge sharpening his tone. "Don't be sentimental now, Madison. Drink it. We have guests waiting."
"I don't think she's thirsty, Mr. Vance," Nora’s voice rang out from the adjoining service corridor.
Julian whirled around, his face twisting in disgust. "You again?! What are you doing in here? Security!"
"Security isn't coming, Julian," Richard Caldwell’s thunderous voice echoed as he stepped out from behind the heavy velvet curtain, followed by two armed Dallas Police detectives.
Julian froze, his gaze darting between Richard and the door. "Richard, this is ridiculous! This crazy housekeeper is stalking us—"
"The entire room is being recorded on the venue's surveillance feed, Mr. Vance," one of the detectives said, holding up a radio. "And we just intercepted the laboratory courier who supplied you with unregulated digitalis last night."
Julian’s face drained of all color. He lunged forward to grab the champagne flute and smash it against the floor, but Nora moved with lightning speed, snatching the glass from the table and securing it behind her back.
"Don't touch the evidence," Nora said coldly.
May you like
Julian was handcuffed and escorted through the rear exit in total silence, avoiding the public eye until the formal arrest warrant could be processed.
***
