After a few toasts, Eleanor Vance rose to her feet. She elegantly smoothed her dress and fixed her cold smile on Anna.

“Dear guests,” she began, her commanding voice cutting through the chatter. “Today, we are gathered to celebrate the wedding of my beloved son, Leo. I am so pleased that he has found a life partner.” She paused, as if carefully selecting her next words. “Of course, as a loving mother, I want my son to have only the very best. And so, his father and I have decided to give the newlyweds a wedding gift: a condominium in the city center.”

A wave of applause rippled through the room. Anna felt a hot blush creep up her neck. She knew about the gift, but for her, their love had always been the most important thing.