Bound To The Broken Alpha (Amy and Daniel) novel Chapter 51

**When Dawn Breaks Slowly Hope Finds Space To Grow by Jin Rowan**
**Chapter 51: Your Little Title**

**AMY**

As the gala approached its conclusion, the atmosphere shifted subtly. The music had mellowed into soft notes, creating a tranquil backdrop against which the guests mingled. Laughter floated through the air, and waiters weaved through the crowd, offering the final flutes of champagne to those who still sought a taste of celebration. To my surprise, the evening had unfolded far more favorably than I had dared to anticipate. Smiles adorned the faces of the guests, the donors appeared genuinely pleased, and even Mrs. Carter wore an expression of satisfaction that was rare and refreshing. It was as if the scandal that had cast a shadow over us was finally beginning to wane, retreating into the recesses of our memories.

I found myself standing near one of the elegantly set tables, engaging in polite conversation with a few investors. They peppered me with questions regarding the foundation’s upcoming outreach program, and I responded to each inquiry with a calm demeanor, carefully choosing my words to convey confidence.

Out of the corner of my eye, I caught sight of Clara making her way toward me. She had been the center of attention for much of the evening, posing for photographs and answering interviews with a practiced ease that bordered on arrogance. I had resolved to ignore her; tonight, I vowed, nothing would penetrate my newfound composure.

As I wrapped up my conversation and attempted to move past her, she intercepted me. “You look comfortable,” she remarked, her voice low yet dripping with the familiar venom that had become her trademark.

I hesitated for a brief moment but refused to meet her gaze. “It’s a public event, Clara. I believe that’s the expectation.”

Her lips twisted into a mocking smile. “Of course, you would think that. It must feel wonderful to pretend that nothing has transpired. Standing there like you’re superior to everyone else.”

“I’m simply fulfilling my responsibilities,” I replied, intent on walking away.

Her voice sharpened, cutting through the air with a bite. “Your responsibilities? Or are you merely trying to eclipse me at my own event?”

I halted, turning to face her fully. “Your event?”

“Yes,” she declared, her tone filled with self-importance. “I’m the star model tonight. Everyone came to see me, not you.”

I nodded once, a gesture of acknowledgment. “If that’s what you believe.”

Before I could extricate myself from the conversation, she leaned in closer, her breath hot with disdain. “Do you really think this little comeback makes you powerful? It doesn’t. Everyone knows you owe your position to Daniel. Without him, you’d still be a nobody.”

I met her gaze, irritation bubbling beneath the surface. “Are you finished?” I asked, my voice steady but laced with annoyance.

She opened her mouth to retort, but before she could utter another word, her body swayed dangerously. Suddenly, she let out a piercing scream and collapsed to the floor, a scene that sent shockwaves through the crowd. Gasps erupted, and heads turned in our direction, curiosity mingling with concern.

As I looked down, I saw her sprawled on the ground, clutching her side and pointing an accusatory finger at me. “She pushed me!” she cried out, her voice filled with panic. “Amy pushed me!”

The room fell into an uneasy silence, all eyes now fixated on us.

I blinked, momentarily stunned by the absurdity of the situation. “What?” I managed to utter, disbelief flooding my senses.

“She did!” Clara wailed again, tears streaming down her face, her voice cracking with feigned vulnerability. “She hates me because I’m the face of this event! She doesn’t want me here!”

Murmurs rippled through the crowd, some rushing to her aid while others stood frozen in shock. I could hear the whispers, like a swarm of buzzing bees, filling the air around us.

I stared at Clara, striving to maintain my composure. “Clara, no one touched you. You fell on your own,” I asserted, my voice steady despite the chaos.

Her cries intensified, her hand still shaking as she pointed at me with fervor. “You liar! You’ve always wanted me gone! You never cared about anyone but yourself! You can’t stand that I’m loved!”

That was the tipping point. I had endured the gossip, the photos, the unfounded accusations, but this was too much.

I stepped forward, my resolve hardening. “You want to accuse me in front of everyone? Fine. Let’s do this properly.”

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