“But the presentation isn’t over.”
The banquet hall doors opened.
Richard Collins entered first.
Behind him was Patricia, Sofia’s mother.
And beside Patricia was a man Daniel recognized immediately: Michael Bennett, Sofia’s father.
Daniel’s expression changed so quickly that several guests noticed.
“Why are they here?” he demanded.
I looked toward the entrance.
“The people who deserve the truth have arrived. They should not have to hear it through rumors or discover it months from now.”
Patricia walked slowly toward her daughter.
Sofia stood up.
“Mom, please—”
Patricia raised one hand.
“Not yet.”
Her voice was quiet, but the entire room seemed to hear it.
Michael stood beside his wife, his jaw clenched.
He looked at Daniel for several seconds before speaking.
“Forty years,” he said. “You’ve known my family for years. I’ve sat at your table. I’ve shaken your hand. And all this time, you’ve been secretly seeing my daughter?”
