“Today, as I see my daughter start this new chapter in her life, I want to make something clear,” Robert said, his eyes sweeping the room. “Anna is not just some ‘poor little country girl.’ She’s a woman of immense strength and character. And she’s not alone.”

He reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out an envelope. The guests leaned in, curious about its contents. Handing it to Anna, he said, “This is a little something from your mother and me. A small nest egg we’ve saved over the years. It’s not much, but it’s yours to do with as you please. A token of our love and belief in you.”

Anna took the envelope with shaky hands, her eyes glistening with gratitude. She knew how hard her parents had worked, how much they had sacrificed, to provide for her future.

Leo, watching the exchange, felt a rush of emotion. The love and loyalty in Anna’s family were palpable, a stark contrast to the icy disdain of his own mother.

Eleanor shifted uncomfortably in her chair, realizing that the room’s atmosphere had shifted. Her earlier cruelty was now a glaring spotlight, and she felt the judgmental eyes of the guests upon her.