Chapter 10: Shadows of the Past
As the evening progressed, Aunt Diane approached the center display where Kristen was speaking with several event patrons. Unable to stomach her niece's success, Diane’s bitterness surfaced.
""A very clever display, Kristen,"" Diane said loudly enough for surrounding guests to hear, her tone dripping with subtle condescension. ""It's remarkable what one can accomplish when one resorts to commercializing family struggles for public sympathy.""
The surrounding guests grew quiet, sensing the sharp edge in Diane's voice.
Arthur stepped forward, but Kristen held up a hand gently, motioning for him to stay calm. She looked Diane directly in the eyes, her expression peaceful yet unbreakable.
""Nothing here was built on sympathy, Aunt Diane,"" Kristen said clearly, her voice echoing softly across the silent circle. ""It was built on hard work, honesty, and love. Things that cannot be bought with money or faked with status.""
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Leo stepped up next to his mother, holding Maya’s hand. He looked up at Diane without fear. ""We built these because we wanted to give people a home, Aunt Diane. Even when someone tries to close the door on you, you can always build your own.""
A murmur of agreement ran through the crowd. Diane looked around, realizing that for the first time, her cruel condescension was exposed for everyone to see.
