"Trying to ruin Starlight Corporation's big day and make trouble for our boss? You two can kneel there and confess!"
I checked the time. Only ten minutes remained of the half hour Arnold had mentioned.
Yet here he was, kneeling alongside me.
Fortunately, while he'd been on the phone, I'd already messaged my parents and brother.
Still, dragging Arnold into this weighed on my conscience.
I shifted on my knees, leaning close to whisper in his ear.
"Don't worry. I'm the real daughter of Capital City's wealthiest family..."
But the moment the words left my lips, Elwin yanked me roughly aside.
"Maureen!"
"Have you no shame? I won't marry you, so you throw yourself at Arnold Delgado?"
"And now you're playing dress-up, claiming to be some billionaire's daughter? Let's see if Arnold believes that!"
To everyone's shock, Arnold nodded with absolute seriousness and began fighting off the men restraining him.
"Whatever Maureen says, I believe!"
The sight of Arnold protecting me despite his own injuries struck Elwin like a blade.
His eyes blazed crimson. His hand flew up to slap me.
"So you were cheating on me all along!"