The air in the ballroom shifted, anticipation hanging heavy among the guests, like the ornate chandeliers above. Brandon’s practiced smile faltered, confusion knitting his brows together. Patricia’s face turned a shade paler, her handkerchief frozen mid-dab. I met her gaze, the heat of my resolve burning through the room.
“Marriage,” I continued, my voice unwavering, “is not just a joining of two people, but a convergence of trust and respect. It’s a partnership built on mutual support, not a transactional merger for financial gain.” I paused, letting the weight of my words sink in, watching the ripples of shock spread across the sea of faces.
Patricia shifted uncomfortably, her façade of propriety cracking under the gaze of hundreds. Brandon opened his mouth to speak, but I silenced him with a raised hand, my eyes locking onto his like a predator sizing up its prey.
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