Heavy footsteps echoed from the porch outside as two uniformed security guards walked through the open front doors[cite: 1].
Security Guard: Sir, you called for us?
Julian: Escort Miss Victoria upstairs to pack her personal clothing. She has five minutes left. After that, walk her off the property grounds[cite: 1].
Security Guard: Yes, Mr. Sterling. Ma'am, please follow us upstairs.
Victoria: Don't touch me! Get your filthy hands off my arm!
Security Guard: We can do this the easy way, or we can call the local police department and report the assault on Miss Elena. It's your choice.
Victoria's mouth snapped shut. She knew if police reports were filed, her reputation among the city's high-society elite would be completely ruined forever.
Victoria: Fine! I'm going!
She turned on her heel, her designer dress swishing aggressively as she stomped up the stairs toward the master bedroom, flanked by the two security guards[cite: 1].
Julian took a deep breath, resting his hands against his face as the sheer weight of the situation finally hit him[cite: 1].
Elena: Julian?
Elena walked back down the stairs, now dressed in a simple, elegant white sweater and blue jeans[cite: 1].
Julian: I am so sorry, Elena. I should have seen through her months ago.
Elena: You were blinded by love, Julian. People like Victoria are experts at hiding who they really are until they feel secure enough to show their teeth.
Julian: When I saw her hit you... I've never felt rage like that in my life.
Elena: You protected me. That's all that matters.
A few minutes later, Victoria dragged two small suitcases down the staircase, her face red and streaked with mascara tears[cite: 1].
Victoria: You're throwing me out like trash, Julian! You'll regret this day for the rest of your life!
Julian: The only thing I regret is bringing a viper into my family's home.
Security Guard: Ma'am, your ride is waiting at the outer gate. Move along.
The guards firmly guided Victoria out through the massive front entrance, closing the heavy oak doors behind her with a deep, final thud[cite: 1].