“Proud?” he said. “How am I supposed to feel proud when you’re… like this? Picture it: I’m walking through the ballroom, and instead of a partner beside me, I’m pushing a wheelchair. Do you know how that looks? Like I’m dragging a problem behind me. My image matters, Mara. I need someone who can stand next to me—not someone who needs help just to exist.”
Each word struck with precision.
“Stay home,” he said flatly. “Don’t wait up. And don’t call.”
He walked out, leaving Mara alone in the quiet room, the red gown folded in her lap like a dream she was no longer allowed to have.
The Grand Ballroom glittered with wealth and celebration. Crystal lights reflected off polished floors, and laughter floated easily between glasses of champagne.
Leo arrived not alone, but with Sheila—his secretary, and far more than that. He introduced her confidently as his “partner,” basking in the approving glances.
“You’ve done well for yourself, Leo,” colleagues said, admiring Sheila.
“As one should,” he replied smugly. “Especially when you’re about to become Vice President.”
Later in the evening, loosened by alcohol and ego, Leo spoke more freely than he should have.
“Best decision I ever made,” he said casually to a group nearby. “Leaving my ex behind. Total dead weight. A cripple. Couldn’t help at home, couldn’t help anywhere. I escaped just in time.”
Laughter followed.
Leo never noticed the silence behind the curtain near the stage.
When the music softened, the CEO stepped forward, commanding the room.
“Ladies and gentlemen,” he said, “before we announce tonight’s promotion, we must acknowledge someone without whom this company would not exist. During the pandemic, this individual saved Apex Global. They are our silent majority shareholder, holding sixty percent of the company.”
Leo straightened. Sixty percent? His pulse quickened.
“Please welcome,” the CEO announced, “our Chairwoman… Ms. Mara Consunji-Velasco.”
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