Chapter 4 - The Gala of the VulturesThe grand ballroom of the Transcorp Hilton in Abuja glittered under ten thousand crystal lights. Flashbulbs popped blindingly as politicians, media moguls, and elite business dynasties gathered for the most anticipated corporate event of the year.
My stepmother Ngozi and my stepsister Adaeze walked in draped in diamonds and designer silk, looking like conquering queens. Adaeze had spent the last three weeks bragging to society magazines about how she had cleverly avoided marrying a “blind vegetable,” mocking me for taking her place.
When Chidi and I entered the hall, the room fell into a sudden, hushed whisper.
I wore a simple, elegant midnight-blue dress that belonged to my mother, paired with her silver pendant. Chidi wore a bespoke charcoal Armani tuxedo, his dark sunglasses hiding his sightless eyes, moving with an aura of untouchable power that commanded absolute silence.
Chief Eze hurried forward, forcing a greasy, triumphant smile.
“Chidi, my boy! Wonderful to see you out of the estate,” Chief Eze beamed, clapping Chidi on the shoulder. “And Adaeze... looking radiant, despite your unfortunate demotion to caregiver.”
Adaeze sneered, eyeing my dress with open contempt. “Enjoy playing nurse, sister. Once the merger documents are signed tonight, the Nwosu empire belongs entirely to our family.”
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Chidi stopped walking. He turned his head slowly toward Chief Eze, a terrifyingly calm smile touching his lips.
“Merger documents, Uncle?” Chidi’s voice rang out clearly across the silent ballroom, amplified by the wireless lapel mic he wore. “Before we sign anything, there is a small art exhibition I think our esteemed guests would love to witness.”
