“I offer commitment, loyalty, and a professional network that benefits us both,” Diana replied calmly.
Judith let out a soft chuckle. “How curious… disguising basic requirements as contributions.”
Brandon laughed with her. Diana noticed. She remained silent.
Judith raised her glass even higher. “We don’t invest in uncertainty. If you intend to marry my son, there will be a contribution. One hundred thousand dollars. Paid before any engagement announcement.”
Before Diana could speak, Judith snapped her wrist. Red wine arced through the air, splattering Diana’s face, hair, and dress. A deep breath swept across the table. A fork clattered to the floor. Brandon grinned, not awkwardly or apologetically, but with obvious amusement.
“I’m just disinfecting the poor,” Judith said cheerfully. “A little humor cheers things up.”
Wine dripped onto the immaculate white tablecloth. The room smelled of grapes and misfortune.
Diana calmly took her napkin and gently dried her face. Her hands were steady. She put the napkin down and looked at Judith, then at Brandon.
“So you find this funny,” he said quietly.
Brandon shrugged. “My mother likes to test people. It’s a tradition. Don’t take it personally.”
Judith leaned forward. “So, will you pay? Or will you admit you don’t belong?”
The silence that followed was heavy. Inside, Diana felt an unexpected calm, like still water settling.
“Very well,” he said with a small, suppressed smile. “Then I will terminate all existing contracts between my firm and your corporate group.”
The effect was immediate. Judith’s smile froze. Brandon stared, confused. The cousins stood still. Brandon’s father slowly put down his glass.
“You’re being sentimental,” Judith said sharply. “Sit down and drop this drama.”
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