“No, Dad,” I said softly, leaning back into his solid, unshakeable strength. I placed my hands over his. “You gave me the choice. I had to learn. I had to see exactly what the world does to quiet, accommodating women. I had to see the monsters for myself.”
I turned around to face him, my dark eyes clear and hard.
“I am awake now.”
Chapter 6: The Untouchable Empress
Three years later.
The grand, vaulted ballroom of the Pierre Hotel in New York City was packed to absolute capacity. The room was a glittering, suffocating concentration of power—global dignitaries, powerful politicians, and the titans of international industry.
The low, polite murmur of the elite crowd silenced instantly as the master of ceremonies stepped to the microphone.
“Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the CEO of Sterling International, and the founder of the Vanguard Foundation for Survivors, Ms. Serena Sterling.”
Thunderous applause erupted as I stepped out from the wings and walked toward the podium.
I did not wear a conservative suit. I did not attempt to blend in. I wore a breathtaking, custom-designed emerald green gown. The front was high-necked and elegant, but the back of the dress plunged entirely to the base of my spine. It was completely, unapologetically backless.
As I turned to address the room, the twenty raised, stark white scars stretching aggressively across my skin were on full, undeniable display beneath the brilliant glare of the crystal chandeliers. I didn’t cover them with makeup. I didn’t try to minimize them. I wore them exactly like a queen wears her crown—undeniable, physical proof of a war I had fought, survived, and ultimately won.
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