The grand ballroom at the luxurious monterazzas Palace Hotel was alive with the buzz of excitement. It was the night of the highly anticipated National Sardine Contest, an event that drew food enthusiasts and industry professionals from all corners of the country. Rose, radiant in a crimson evening gown, stood at the entrance, her eyes scanning the room in search of her business partner, Richie Patindol.
"Richie should be here by now. This event is a big deal for our business." Rose Said Nervously.
Just as Rose uttered those words, Richie, dressed in a sharp tuxedo, appeared, holding a flute of champagne.
Richie: (smiling) "Sorry for the delay, Rose. Traffic was a nightmare. But we made it."
Rose: (relieved) "Thank goodness you're here. Let's make this night unforgettable."
As they made their way deeper into the ballroom, Rose and Richie marveled at the extravagant displays of sardine dishes, each more creatively presented than the last. It was a testament to their successful partnership, and they couldn't help but exchange a proud look.
Meanwhile, across the room, hidden behind a cluster of guests, Russiana watched them with a sardonic smile. She clutched a glass of red wine, her eyes filled with a mixture of envy and resentment.
"Enjoy your little victory while you can, Rose." Russiana Whispering to herself.
The night continued with laughter, delicious food, and the occasional congratulatory toast. Rose and Richie mingled with fellow contestants, reveling in the glory of their achievements. Unbeknownst to them, Pyke had been following a live broadcast of the event on Facegram, his heart pounding with anticipation as he raced to the Monterazzas Palace Hotel.
Pyke: (frantic) "I have to get there. I have to stop this."
When Pyke finally burst into the ballroom, a gasp rippled through the crowd. All eyes turned toward the commotion as he sprinted toward the epicenter of chaos.
"Rose!" Pyke said desperately.
What Pyke saw next left him dumbfounded. Rose and Russiana were locked in a heated confrontation, fingers pointing accusingly at each other.
Rose: (angry) "You thought you could ruin us, didn't you?"
Russiana: (defiant) "You deserve this, Rose! You stole everything from me!"
The scandal had escalated violently, and guests were recording the scene on their phones. Pyke's heart sank as he watched his wife and Russiana, their faces contorted with anger.
Amidst the chaos, Richie finally pieced together the truth about Rose and Russiana's history. The shock of the revelation hit him like a tidal wave, and he stumbled backward, clutching his chest.
"Rose… Russiana… You… You can't…" Richie said it with a stuttering voice and with those words, Richie Patindol, once Rose's loyal business partner, collapsed, unconscious, onto the plush carpeted floor.