Just then, Ethan entered the ballroom after greeting relatives outside.
He immediately noticed his mother kneeling on the floor, trying to gather the crushed roses while quietly crying.
Without hesitation, he rushed toward her.
He helped her stand and wrapped his arms around her.
Then he turned to Vanessa.
His voice echoed through the ballroom.
"Don't touch her."
"She is my mother."
The room fell silent.
Vanessa looked stunned.
"Ethan... you're overreacting."
"It was only flowers."
Margaret gently touched Ethan's arm.
"Son..."
"Please listen to her."
But Ethan shook his head.
"I've listened long enough."
He carefully picked up every rose from the floor.
Each flower reminded him of the sacrifices his mother had made throughout his life.
The room waited for his next words.