Chapter 4: The Day Richard Lost Everything
The Whitman charity gala was supposed to save Richard’s reputation.
He invited every important person in the city.
He planned to announce himself as the victim.
But he made one mistake.
He invited me.
When I walked into the ballroom holding Ethan’s hand, everyone turned.
Richard smiled.
“Amanda. I’m glad you came.”
I smiled back.
“So am I.”
The cameras started recording.
Richard stepped onto the stage.
“My family has been going through a difficult time…”
I interrupted.
“No.”
The entire room froze.
I walked toward the microphone.
“Let’s tell the truth.”
Richard’s expression changed.
Then the screen behind me turned on.
Security footage.
The room watched as Ethan crawled across the floor.
They heard Vivian’s voice.
They heard Richard’s words.
“That boy doesn’t belong in this family.”
Silence.
Absolute silence.
Richard’s face turned pale.
“Amanda, turn that off.”
I looked at him.
“Why?”
“Because this is private.”
I shook my head.
“No, Richard.”
May you like
I looked around the room.
“Cruelty is only private when nobody sees it.”
