And Derek?
He stood there doing nothing.
He didn’t apologize.
He didn’t ask whether Lily was hurt.
He simply watched.
Something inside me became painfully clear.
I had spent three years making excuses for his behavior.
But there was no excuse left.
I turned to my father.
“Please make sure Lily and Grace are brought upstairs safely.”
He nodded to one of our security officers.
Then I stood.
“I’m ready.”
Part 5 — The Woman He Never Knew
The ballroom doors opened just as Derek returned to the microphone.
He had regained his confidence.
“Tonight,” he announced, “we are honored to welcome representatives from one of the most influential investment groups in the country.”
He smiled toward the front tables.
“Harrington Equity Partners has been instrumental in helping promising companies reach their full potential, and I’m confident tonight marks the beginning of an even greater partnership.”
Then he noticed the movement near the entrance.
