And beneath the disguise he wore, his heart began to change.
THE CHARITY GALA
The Grand Charity Gala marked Elena’s debut into elite society.
Hector dressed her in a crimson gown and priceless jewels. He arrived in a tuxedo stretched tightly over his massive body.
Whispers filled the ballroom.
Then Marina, Hector’s former lover—the woman who had shattered his trust—approached with a mocking smile.
“Wow, Hector,” she laughed.
“You’ve gotten even bigger. Is this the woman you bought? How much did she cost?”
Her friends snickered.
Hector lowered his gaze.
He expected Elena to step back.
She didn’t.
She moved forward.
“Do not insult my husband,” Elena said firmly.
The room stilled.
“Yes, he’s large,” she continued.
“Yes, he’s different from your polished husbands.”
Her voice carried.
“But his heart is larger than all of yours combined. I married him because of debt—I admit it. But I stayed because I saw his kindness when you only saw appearances.”
She placed her hand on Hector’s shoulder.
“I am proud to be his wife. I would choose him over people with beautiful faces and empty souls.”
Silence crashed over the ballroom.
Marina stood humiliated.
Hector looked at Elena—and knew.
She was the one.