“I always imagined a different kind of daughter-in-law,” she continued. “Someone from our world. Someone… more suitable.” She paused, smiling faintly. “But love doesn’t ask for permission, does it? He fell for a simple girl from a very modest background. Well… we’ll adjust.”
At the far end of the table, Grace sat still, her gaze lowered, hands resting calmly on the white tablecloth.
“But now,” Victoria added, “it seems we may also be taking on her entire family. After all, when your mother has spent her life serving meals in a public school cafeteria…” she let out a soft, mocking laugh, “…there isn’t much talk of a dowry.”
A few guests laughed awkwardly. Others avoided eye contact.
Victoria leaned into the moment.
“Just look at her. She couldn’t even afford a proper outfit. A cafeteria salary doesn’t exactly allow for elegance.”
Emily suddenly stood and rushed out of the room. Daniel followed, but Victoria continued, unfazed.
“But it’s fine,” she added lightly. “My son’s wife has hit the jackpot. She won’t spend her life scrubbing pots like her mother. She’ll live comfortably… thanks to us.”
A heavy silence settled.
Victoria placed the microphone down, satisfied.
Then Grace slowly rose.