When philanthropy turns ugly

The lights shone bright at the prestigious Bellvue Estate, casting a warm glow over the gala attendees. The air was alive with quiet buzz of conversation, the clinking of champagne glasses, and the live music of a live string quartet. Aurora Wynter, the evening's host, took the stage with elegance and poise, her raven hair, styled in a simple ponytail fell down her back and her brown eyes sparkling.

"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed guests, and fellow philanthropists, I'm honored to host tonight's gala, 'Elegance for a Cause.' Tonight, we gather to support the Bellvue Foundation, dedicated to empowering underprivileged children through education and arts programs."

As Aurora acknowledged the generous donations from influential patrons, the anticipation built. Senator James Reed pledged $200,000 to establish a scholarship fund, Julian Saint Clair donated $300,000 to support arts programs, and Sophia Patel contributed $400,000 to fund community development initiatives.

Aurora's voice then introduced the evening's main event. "Now, it's time for our top donors to take the stage. Vivian Blackhood and Regina Wellington, please join me."

Vivian, respectfully dressed in her designer gown, stepped forward with Ryder by her side. Her diamond necklace glittered under the lights, and her confident smile commanded attention. Aurora smiled. "Vivian, you're first. Please reveal your donation."

Vivian's smile gleamed. "I'm proud to donate a state-of-the-art educational facility, valued at $2.5 million, and an additional $1.5 million to support mentorship programs for underprivileged girls."

The audience applauded as Vivian unveiled a video showcasing the facility's cutting-edge technology and innovative learning spaces.

Regina's eyes narrowed, her mind racing with determination. I won't let Vivian outshine me.

Regina took the stage, her confident stride commanding attention. Her emerald green gown sparkled , and her green eyes sparkled with conviction. "I'm pleased to donate a comprehensive healthcare initiative, valued at $5 million, providing access to quality medical care for underprivileged children, and an additional $2 million to establish a vocational training program."

The room erupted into applause as Regina revealed the initiative's details, including partnerships with top medical institutions and industry leaders.

Vivian's smile faltered, her eyes flashing with jealousy. How did Regina outdo me?

Regina's thoughts whispered, Victory is sweet.She savored the moment, her eyes locked on Vivian's.

Aurora Wynter beamed, pleased with the evening's success. "Ladies and gentlemen, tonight's donations total an astonishing $15 million. Thank you, Vivian and Regina, for your extraordinary generosity."

As the audience applauded, Vivian's gaze lingered on Regina, her mind racing with strategies to reclaim the spotlight.

The rivalry between Vivian and Regina had only just begun.

As Vivian returned to her seat, her smile masked a seething anger. Regina's donation had outshone hers, and the audience's applause still echoed in her mind. She felt her perfectly crafted mask crumbling.

"Damn Regina," Vivian muttered under her breath, her eyes flashing with resentment.

Meanwhile, Ryder navigated through the crowd, holding two champagne glasses. He approached Vivian, a gentle smile on his face.

"Here, darling," Ryder said, offering Vivian her drink. "Champagne to celebrate your generosity."

But Vivian's anger boiled over. Her hand jerked, hitting the glass cup, and champagne spilled onto her designer gown.

"Oh, no!" Ryder exclaimed, as Vivian's eyes widened in rage.

The accident ignited Vivian's fury. She slapped Ryder's face with a resounding crack, the sound echoing through the ballroom.

"How careless can you be?" Vivian hissed, her voice venomous. "You're always making a fool of me! Can't you do anything right?"

Ryder's eyes widened, his cheek hurting from the slap. "Vivian, How can u slap me for this small mistake... I...."

"Shut up!" Vivian snapped, her eyes blazing. "You're useless! You're only good for one thing – making me look like a fool!"

The room fell silent, with all eyes on the unfolding drama.

Aurora Wynter rushed to intervene, her voice soothing. "Vivian, dear, perhaps we should—"

Vivian cut her off. "No, Aurora. I've had enough of this night. Enough of being humiliated!"

The cameras continued to snap photos, capturing Vivian's furious expression and Ryder's shocked face.

Social media erupted with the hashtag #VivianExplodes, as the news of the altercation spread like wildfire.

Regina watched the scene unfold, a mixture of shock and satisfaction on her face. "Looks like someone can't handle being outdone," she whispered to her companion.

Vivian grasped Ryder's arm, her nails digging deep. "We're leaving. Now. Get me out of here before I make an even bigger scene."

Without a word, Ryder escorted Vivian out of the ballroom, amidst a sea of stunned faces.

As they departed, the gala continued, but the evening's tone had shifted. The air was thick with tension, and the guests whispered about the dramatic scene.

"I guess that's one way to steal the spotlight," someone quipped.

Regina's donation had not only outdone Vivian's but had also exposed the cracks in their seemingly perfect marriage.

The night had taken an unexpected turn, and the consequences of Vivian's outburst would be far-reaching.