"There is going to be a wedding!" Jasmine, who had been avoiding Richmond's gaze all evening, finally looked up, her shimmering eyes brimming with hope and a bit of confusion.
"Yes, Jas," a thin smile spread across Richmond's lips. "There is going to be a wedding, on Saturday next week. So you can set your mind at ease. There is no need for you to feel gloomy. And there is no need to withdraw all the wedding cards sent out or cancel anything."
"Mr Richmond, is this some kind of joke?" Mr Malcolm, who had kept silent all evening, listening to Richmond ridiculing confession, finally spoke. His rigid expression displayed all shades of anger. "Are you trying to make a mess of my daughter's feelings?"
"No, sir," Richmond maintained his placid tone and smile. "I will never make light of Jasmine's feelings. I..."
Mrs Malcolm cut Richmond off as she bombarded him with the next question.