Arthur turned his back on the panic-stricken socialite, looking down with deep affection at the quiet elderly woman in the wheelchair before placing a supportive hand on Hannah’s shoulder. She was only protecting my mother, Arthur explained to the silent, watching crowd in a clear, authoritative voice. A wave of audible gasps swept through the ballroom as the high-society guests realized Victoria had spent the evening abusing the elusive matriarch of the Vance empire. Victoria stood frozen, isolated on the marble floor, watching in complete ruin as Arthur personally thanked the young maid, cementing a humble servant's bravery while destroying an arrogant socialite's future in a single, unforgettable evening.