Chapter 6 - The Velvet Trap
The ballroom was a sea of silk, diamonds, and champagne. Elena sat in the center of it all, feeling entirely invisible despite being the guest of honor. Julian stood beside her wheelchair, holding a microphone. He flashed a blinding, photogenic smile at the crowd of hundreds. "Ladies and gentlemen," Julian's voice boomed, echoing off the marble floors. "Thank you for joining us on this momentous occasion." The crowd applauded politely. Flashbulbs from exclusive press photographers lit up the room.
"Five years ago, tragedy struck the love of my life," Julian continued, placing a hand on Elena's shoulder. His grip was tight, almost bruising. "But through tragedy, we found strength. Tonight, I am not just announcing our corporate merger. I am announcing that Elena has agreed to be my wife." The room erupted into cheers. Elena felt a wave of nausea wash over her. She looked at the faces in the crowd—billionaires, politicians, corrupt doctors. They were all part of the machine that was crushing her. Beneath the long silk fabric of her red dress, her toes twitched. The tingling in her calves was turning into a fire. She gripped the armrests of her wheelchair tightly. Not yet, she told herself. I am not strong enough yet. She closed her eyes, praying for someone, anyone, to save her.
