The Grand Ballroom of the Vance estate in Dallas was filled with warm sunlight. Light marble floors reflected crystal chandeliers, while crisp white walls featured elegant American flag artwork. Evelyn Vance stood near the center of the room, looking at Clara with complete disgust.
Clara adjusted the blue silk gown she wore for the rehearsal dinner. Her pregnancy was starting to show, creating a soft curve under the fabric. She tried to smile at the catering staff, but her mother-in-law walked over with sharp steps.
Evelyn: You do not belong in this family, Clara.
Clara: I love Julian, Mrs. Vance. We just want a peaceful wedding.
Evelyn: My son is the heir to Vance Enterprises. You are a nobody from nowhere.
Julian stepped between them, holding two glasses of sparkling water. He looked at his mother with a pleading expression.
Julian: Mom, please stop. Clara is my choice, and she is carrying my child.
Evelyn: She is a gold digger, Julian. Look at her simple dress.
Chloe, Julian's younger sister, walked up in a stunning white wedding gown from her own fittings. She stood beside her mother, crossing her arms.
Chloe: Mom is right, Julian. She hasn't contributed a single dollar to the venue fees.
Clara: My father promised to handle the reception costs tomorrow.
Evelyn: Your father is a truck driver who hasn't been seen in three years!
The guests around the ballroom began to whisper. Clara gripped her hands tightly behind her back, trying to keep her posture straight. She refused to let them see her cry in public.
Julian: Let's just sit down for dinner. The lawyers will bring the prenup papers later.
Evelyn: She will sign everything before she takes one step toward the altar.
Clara nodded slowly, trying to keep the peace for her unborn child. She walked toward the grand head table near the framed flag decor. She knew her father was coming, and she prayed he would arrive before the night spiraled out of control.