Evidence in Hand
Eric watched the scene unfold with a sarcastic glint in his eyes. These people had clearly anticipated Ella's arrival and put on a show of sincerity in their apology, believing that Ella, under the pressure of the media and upper-class scrutiny, would have no choice but to accept. After all, refusing would be seen as lacking the grace expected of a high-society wife.
Their assumptions weren't entirely wrong—Ella rejecting the apology in such a public setting would make her seem ungracious and unreasonable. But Ella never played by the rules.
As soon as Ella finished speaking, the room erupted in murmurs of shock. Her firm stance and refusal to show even a hint of leniency left the crowd astonished.