The pristine grand ballroom of the Grand Plaza Hotel was transformed into a paradise of white orchids, silk drapery, and towering crystal chandeliers, setting the stage for what was supposed to be the wedding of the century. Hundreds of high-society elites filled the golden chairs, eagerly awaiting the union of two of the country's most formidable business dynasties. However, as the heavy brass doors opened, a chilling silence fell over the room. Walking down the aisle was Victoria, an exceptionally beautiful bride in an exquisite lace gown, but her radiant white veil could not conceal the fresh, dark bruises marring her porcelain skin and the visible cut across her lip. Beside her walked her groom, Julian, a notoriously arrogant heir whose smirk radiated ruthless triumph. Beside the altar stood Victoria's father, Lord Harrington, a distinguished gentleman with silver hair and a sharp tuxedo, whose aristocratic composure instantly shattered into pure, unadulterated horror as his daughter drew near.
Lord Harrington stepped down from the altar platform, his hands trembling as he reached toward his only child, his eyes locking onto the visible marks of violence on her face. Before the horrified father could speak, Julian stepped forward with sickening confidence, casually adjusting his cufflinks under the bright high-key lighting. Without a shred of shame or hesitation, Julian raised his hand and delivered a sharp, deliberate slap across Victoria’s cheek right in front of the entire congregation. The sharp impact rang through the high-ceilinged hall like a gunshot, prompting loud, collective gasps of horror from the rows of high-society guests, politicians, and media moguls watching in complete disbelief.