Gasps echoed across the hall. Charlotte’s smile faltered. Daniel’s eyes widened.

“So… if anyone doesn’t think she belongs here, then they don’t really know what family is. Because family means sticking together. And my mom is the reason Uncle Daniel and I are so close. She’s the reason we’re all here.”

The room erupted in applause. Some people even stood. My knees went weak as tears streamed down my face.

Noah handed the microphone back and walked straight to me. I wrapped him in the tightest hug, whispering, “I love you, I love you so much.”

When I looked up, Daniel was there. His face was red, his eyes glossy. He stepped forward and hugged both of us.

“I’m sorry,” he whispered in my ear. “I should’ve said something sooner.”