Camilla and Francis stood in front of the assembled guests, their engagement celebrated with applause and well-wishing words. The efforts of Adela and Richard to prevent the union had been in vain. A heavy cloud of apprehension and unspoken words hung between Camilla and Francis as they exchanged a ceremonial ring, and applause erupted around them.
Despite the outward show of happiness, neither of them could shake the palpable tension that gripped their hearts. Francis seized a moment during the clapping to lean in and whisper to Camilla, "Camilla, do you have a moment? I want to talk to you."
Camilla barely looked at him, her face devoid of emotion, as she replied, "Okay."
With a nod, they silently walked away from the jubilant crowd. The setting sun cast long shadows, adding an air of melancholy to their already tense encounter. The distant laughter and chatter of the celebration contrasted sharply with the gravity of the moment.
