Arthur descended the stairs with measured steps, his face an impenetrable mask of calm. Every eye in the room tracked his movement as the crowd parted before him like water. The silence was deafening – so complete I could hear my own heartbeat pounding in my ears.
I stood my ground as he approached, uncertain whether he was coming to rescue me or finish destroying me. The photo on the screen still loomed over us, casting an accusatory glow across the room.
Before Arthur could reach me, Genevieve broke from the crowd and threw herself in his path, her face contorted with theatrical anguish.
"Mr. Sterling!" she wailed, grasping at his sleeve. "You must take responsibility! Look what you've done to my daughter!"
Arthur didn't even spare her a glance. "Philip," he said quietly.
His assistant materialized from nowhere, nodding once. "Right away, sir."
Philip took Genevieve firmly by the arm. "Mrs. Thorne, let's step outside to discuss this matter privately."
