Leo nodded, the shame from earlier replaced with a resolute determination. He reached for Anna’s hand beneath the table, squeezing it as if to affirm his commitment not just to her, but to everything Robert was saying.

Robert looked at his daughter, pride radiating from him. “Anna, remember that you’re more than enough and worthy of every happiness this life can offer. You have a strength and grace that no one can take away from you, no matter what they say or do.”

Anna smiled softly, her eyes shining not with tears of sorrow, but with gratitude and love. Her father’s words were a balm, a testament to the strength she’d drawn from him all her life.

The guests, who had been silent till now, began to murmur in agreement, nodding and glancing at each other. It was clear that Robert’s heartfelt speech had struck a chord, resonating with the truths of love and respect that should be the foundation of any marriage.

Eleanor, realizing she’d lost the room, leaned back in her chair, her expression torn between annoyance and a grudging respect for the man who had so calmly and eloquently stood up to her. She had been outdone not by wealth or social standing, but by the sincerity and integrity of a father’s love for his daughter.

As Robert returned to his seat, the room filled with applause—not the polite kind given after Eleanor’s toast, but genuine and heartfelt. It was a celebration of love, a recognition of the values that truly matter.

The rest of the evening continued in a much warmer atmosphere. Guests, inspired by Robert’s words, shared stories of love and kindness. The divide that Eleanor had attempted to create with her words was mended by the unity that Robert’s speech had inspired.

As the couple danced their first dance, under the warm glow of the lights, surrounded by their friends and family, Anna knew that her father’s words would stay with her always. They were a reminder that no matter what challenges lay ahead, the foundation of her new life with Leo was strong, built on love, respect, and equality.