The violinist seemed to catch my tone, transitioning into a softer, more poignant melody. I stepped down from the stage, feeling a wave of quiet applause ripple through the room. The mood had changed, lightened. It was as if my words had opened a window, letting fresh air sweep through a stifling space.

Louise stood as I returned to our table. Her smile was brighter now, no longer forced. “Thank you,” she whispered, her voice barely audible over the renewed buzz of conversation. I simply nodded, knowing that sometimes the strongest action is the courage to speak with kindness in the face of cruelty.