Chapter 10: Sins of the Aristocracy**
The news swept across international financial headlines like wildfire the next morning.
**"VANCE DYNASTY COLLAPSE: HIGH SOCIETY GALA FRAUD UNCOVERS DECADE-LONG $50M EMBEZZLEMENT SCHEME."**
News broadcasts played the side-by-side comparison of Clara Vance accusing Elena at the gala, followed by footage of Clara being escorted out of her Manhattan penthouse in handcuffs by federal marshals. The public outrage was deafening. The narrative of an arrogant billionaire framing a working-class server had ignited a national conversation about corporate accountability and systemic abuse.
In a federal holding cell, Clara sat in an orange jumpsuit, devoid of her diamond earrings, designer gown, and pristine posture. When Julian walked into the visitation room, she glared at him with pure venom.
"You destroyed our family name for a common nobody," Clara hissed through the glass partition.
"No, Clara," Julian answered quietly through the telephone. "You destroyed this family the day you decided that people's lives and dignity were disposable commodities. Elena Cruz didn't take your necklace, but she took away your power to hurt innocent people."
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Clara slammed the receiver against the glass, breaking down into hysterical, helpless sobs as guards led her away. Julian stood up, walking out into the courthouse light, feeling a profound sense of closure.
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