After the call was disconnected, Stacey's father slammed his fist on the coffee table, making the cups rattle and the lights in the room seemed to flicker. "What is wrong with you, Stacey? You can't just call off the engagement without a valid reason!" The sound of his voice was like a crack of thunder, shaking the very foundations of the room.
Stacey crossed her arms, her jaw set, her eyes flashing with defiance. "I don't need to explain myself to you, Dad. I've made up my mind." Her voice was steady, but her hands trembled slightly, betraying her emotions. The air in the room seemed to thicken, heavy with tension.
James's face reddened, his eyes bulging with anger. "You're being reckless and impulsive, Stacey. You know why we arranged this marriage. Your life is in danger, and only Fredrick can protect you." The memory of the threats they'd received seemed to fuel his anger, making his words more venomous.
