The silence in the room was absolute, shattered only by the sound of Celeste’s heavy breathing.

“It’s a fake video!” Celeste shrieked, desperately grasping at straws.

Julian slowly handed the tablet back to his guard.

“You are a liar, a manipulator, and a thief,” Julian said, his voice echoing with finality.

He reached into his pocket and pulled out the velvet ring box containing her engagement ring.

Without a word, he tossed the box onto a silver serving tray, dismissing the engagement entirely.

“Get out of my house, Celeste,” Julian commanded.

“You can’t do this to me! We belong together!” she sobbed, abandoning all her pride.

“Security, escort Miss Ashford off the property,” Julian instructed coldly.

Two large guards flanked the hysterical woman, dragging her toward the heavy oak doors.

Her screams faded into the night, leaving the ballroom in stunned awe.