Her words hung in the air, a declaration that echoed beyond the walls of the restaurant. For a moment, no one spoke. The silence was deafening, the tension almost tangible. Then, unexpectedly, a slow clap began from the corner of the room. Others joined in, a ripple of applause spreading through the diners who recognized her bravery.

Charles shifted, an unfamiliar heat creeping up his neck. The power dynamic had shifted, and he felt the weight of judgment from those around him. He was a man unaccustomed to empathy or introspection, but Amara’s quiet dignity struck a chord that reverberated within him.

Finally, he cleared his throat, attempting to regain his composure. “Very well,” he said, attempting a nonchalance he didn’t quite feel. “I’ll let it go this time.”