A slow, satisfied smile spread across Luke's face.
But it froze halfway.
"It is worth it to be allied with the Kaels."
The smile cracked, then shattered entirely.
"Their son," Diana continued, her voice cool and sharp, "has shown incredible potential. He has the strength to defend his family's name, unlike your son, who was humiliated, or your wife, who lost control and attacked a child. There is no dignity in that. If there are any lunatics here…" she turned slightly, her eyes narrowing—"…they're in the Feran family."
Gasps echoed throughout the crowd.
The Kael family members all smiled. Selena's lips curled in open satisfaction. Even Darian, ever the silent blade, gave a small nod. And beside Diana, Elizabeth grinned, pride swelling in her chest.
'Way to go, Mum.'
Luke's face turned red with rage. But he was stuck. Cornered. And to make it worse—it was happening in his own home.
