Chapter 7 - Dominic’s Reckoning
With the ring recovered and the framing exposed, the spotlight shifted viciously back to the center of the room. Dominic Hayes stood frozen, his face drained of all color, realizing that his cowardly silence had just vaporized his marriage, his career prospects, and any social standing he thought he had secured by marrying into the Whitmore family.
He took a hesitant step toward Vivienne, holding out a trembling hand. “Viv... honey, please. You have to understand. My mother, Chloe... they were out of control. I was just trying to keep the peace between my family and us. You know how they are. Please, talk to me.”
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Vivienne looked down at his outstretched hand, then up into his desperate, pleading eyes. There was no anger left in her—only a profound, liberating emptiness. “For three years, Dominic, whenever your family degraded me, you told me to keep things simple,” Vivienne said, her voice carrying clearly across the silent, watching room. “You told me they wouldn't understand my world. But the truth is, you didn't want to defend me because you agreed with them. You liked feeling superior by association. You traded your integrity for a seat at their table.” “Viv, I'm your husband—" Dominic began, his voice cracking with panic. “Not anymore,” Vivienne interrupted coldly. “My father’s legal team will have the divorce papers and asset freeze notifications delivered to your office by sunrise. Don't call me. Don't look for me. Your silence tonight answered every question I ever had about your loyalty.”
Dominic dropped his hands, sinking backward as the harsh reality set in. He had chosen cowards over his wife, and now he was left with nothing.
