The Billionaire's Dangerous Redemption (by Claire Winters) novel Chapter 16

6 A Desperate Call in the Night

My phone wouldn’t stop ringing. The moment I stepped into my apartment, it vibrated again with Vera’s name flashing across the screen. I considered ignoring it, but knew she’d just keep calling until I answered.

“Hazel! What the actual hell happened? Are you okay?” Her voice exploded through the speaker without waiting for my greeting.

I sank onto my couch, suddenly feeling the weight of the day crushing down on me. “It’s a long story.

“I’ve been watching video clips for the past hour! Your father hitting you on stage? Ivy collapsing? The internet is going crazy!” Vera’s words tumbled out in a rush of anger and concern. “Why didn’t you call me? I would have come right away!”

“I just needed some time alone,” I said, rubbing my temples. “Everything happened so fast.”

“That bastard hit you in front of everyone.” Her voice hardened. “I swear I’m going to destroy him. My family’s lawyers-”

“No,” I cut her off. “It’s actually perfect. Let everyone see what kind of man Harold Shaw really

is.”

Vera went quiet for a moment. “There’s already talk about Evening Gala. People are speculating about how this will affect the brand.”

My stomach dropped. In all the chaos, I hadn’t considered the professional fallout. The fashion industry thrived on gossip, and this scandal was prime material.

“How bad is it?” I asked.

“Mixed. Some people are supporting you. Others are… well, you know how this industry works.”

I did know. A designer’s reputation was everything. “I need to make a statement before this spirals further.”

“Already ahead of you,” said Vera. “I’ve been messaging everyone I know to keep the narrative straight. You’re the victim here, Hazel. Don’t let them twist this.”

“Thanks.” My eyes burned with tears I refused to shed. “I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

“You’d manage. You’re the strongest person I know.” Her voice softened. “But seriously, I can come over right now.”

I glanced at the clock. Nearly midnight. “No need. I just want to sleep and forget this day ever happened.”

My call–waiting beeped. Three more friends trying to reach me.

16:27

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16 A Desperate Call in the Night

“I should go,” I told Vera. “I need to respond to a few people before I crash.”

“Call me tomorrow, first thing,” she insisted. “And Hazel? This isn’t the end. It’s just the beginning of something new.”

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