Her hands crossed modestly in front of her, blushing as if the praise was for her, not Andrew.
Suddenly, it dawned on me, and I had a feeling I knew what Veronica was going to say next.
Could it be�
âOf course!â Veronica smiled.
âIâve made up my mind.
I will give Shirleyâs hand in marriage to Andrew.
Andrew, do you agree?â
As she finished speaking, the crowd reacted just as we expected, their expressions seeming to say, âJust as we thought.
â Then, almost as if choreographed, all eyes turned to Andrew.
They were all waiting for his answer.
Debraâs POV:
A cold dread washed over me.
My suspicions were confirmed.
Veronicaâs grand banquet was a setup.
She intended to use this gathering of the clanâs elite to pressure Andrew into marrying Shirley.
With so many witnesses, refusing Veronicaâs public proposal would be a major insult.
It would humiliate both Veronica and Shirley, Likely ending Andrewâs career.
Veronica wouldnât outright destroy him, but sheâd slowly marginalize him, cutting him off from power and secrets.
His future would be bleak.
No wonder Andrew looked so troubled.
It was a terrible bind.
But how could I be involved? Why did Andrew think I was the key to resolving his dilemma?
My thoughts were interrupted by Andrewâs voice.
He met Veronicaâs gaze, a hint of regret in his voice.
âMs.
Harrison, I apologize, but Iâm afraid I canât accept your request.
â
His words sent shockwaves through the hall.
Whispers erupted.
âDid Mr.
Pierce just reject Ms.
Harrisonâs proposal?â
âIs this real?â
âWhy would he refuse? Shirley is a perfect match!â
The murmur of speculation intensified.
Shirleyâs face flushed with rage.
She shrieked, âAndrew, why? Donât you want to marry me?â
Veronicaâs smile vanished.
She gripped the microphone tightly.
âAndrew, explain yourself.
Now.
â
Andrew remained silent, then turned towards me, a smile gracing his lips.