At the engagement banquet, Clara waited for the crowd, who wanted to give a congratulatory gift around Ian turned to leave, before stepping forward with a small gift in her hands.
She had rehearsed this moment in her mind countless times. However, now that she was standing before him, her throat felt dry and the words she had prepared to say felt logged in her throat.
She forced herself to meet his eyes, she managed to whisper, "Brother, I wish you both a lifetime of happiness."
"This is the first time you've called me 'brother' since my mom adopted you." Ian's voice carried a hint of surprise as he looked down at Clara, his dark eyes were unreadable.
Then he added, "You can save those words and say it for the wedding banquet."
A wedding banquet?
She probably wouldn’t even be around for that.
Clara lowered her gaze while staring at the tip of her shoes. She muttered a vague response before escaping as quickly as she could.
Ian did not seem to care. He simply turned back and wrapped an arm around Rea’s waist and introduced her thoughtfully to each guest bringing gifts for her.
Clara stood still in a daze. At some point, their figures had disappeared into the crowd.