Gabriel nodded, satisfied. “We’ll be leaving now. Ava, your place is with us, where you’re respected and loved.”

As the brothers escorted Ava out, the room remained hushed, the guests left to ponder the evening’s events. The Harringtons had been publicly put in their place, their attempt to humiliate Ava turned back on them in the most spectacular fashion.

Outside, Ava breathed deeply, the night air cleansing her spirit. She looked at her brothers, her eyes brimming with gratitude. “Thank you,” she whispered. They smiled, knowing that family, true family, always stands together.