My cousin Oliver attempted to calm the situation.
“Relax, Evan. She’s just helping.”
I met his gaze.
“I know the woman who stood beside me when I had very little. I promised that woman I would always protect her.”
Then I looked around the room.
“Apparently that promise became inconvenient for some of you.”
My mother’s voice sharpened.
“Watch how you speak to me.”
I inhaled slowly.
“Fine,” I said. “Then listen carefully.”
I walked to the sound system and turned off the music.
The silence that followed was immediate and uncomfortable.
“The party is over.”
Gasps spread across the room.
“You can’t do that!” Allison protested.
I looked directly at her.
“This house belongs to me. And my wife is not a servant.”
I turned to the guests.
“Thank you for coming. But tonight’s gathering ends here.”
One by one they collected their coats and left quietly, avoiding eye contact.
Within minutes the house was nearly empty.
Only my family remained.
