Upon hearing what Oliver just said, Cora's father burst into laughter at Oliver's playful confidence. He patted Oliver on the back and said, "Now, that's the spirit I like. That's the kind of man who deserves to stand beside my daughter." With a wide smile still on his face, he added, "Come, walk with me. There's something I've been meaning to discuss with you. Something important."
Without waiting another moment, Cora's father and Oliver started walking away side by side, deep in conversation. Cora, still smiling proudly, trailed behind them, her heart full. She felt like everything was finally falling into place.
But not everyone was smiling.
Back at his spot, Uncle Festus remained frozen. His face slowly twisted with barely-contained rage. His eyes narrowed, his jaw clenched so tightly it looked like it might crack. His hands curled into fists by his sides, and the veins on the back of his hands bulged out like thick ropes, pulsing with frustration.
