I took a deep breath, feeling an unfamiliar but empowering sense of freedom. Years of biting my tongue and forcing smiles had led to this moment. I stood up slowly, the ruined dress clinging awkwardly to me, but I didn’t care anymore. I had worn it hoping to impress, but realizing now that I had nothing to prove to these people.

“Emily—” Mark began, but I held up a hand to stop him. It was the first time I had seen genuine uncertainty in his eyes.

“No, Mark,” I interrupted, my voice steady and clear. “You’ve had your fun. But I’m done playing this game.”