Page 24 of Sweet Dominion

My father nodded and whispered to himself. “I smell lavender. Very good.”

Pride hit me.

However, despite the beauty of the ceremony and the genius of her blend, I could still see the strain in her posture.

What are you nervous about? You’re doing amazing.

Could something have happened between my saying goodbye to her this morning and now?

Was it her sisters in the East?

Did Marcelo or Banks call and upset her?

I leaned toward Chen and whispered. “Where is Ming Yui?”

Chen blinked his eyes. “She’s in the dungeon below the palace. I didn’t want her to cause any more trouble this week.

So, Ming Yui didn’t happen to come around and bother her.

What could it be?

Moni took another deep breath and turned to the reporters. When she began to speak, her voice was steady and clear. "I am deeply honored to be part of this tea ceremony.”

One of the reporters smiled, surely loving the experience.

Moni glanced at me.

I gave her a small, encouraging nod, hoping to ease her nerves.

She returned her view to the reporters, "It is my hope to embrace the East's traditions with the utmost respect and to contribute to the preservation and celebration of this beautiful culture."

To my surprise and probably everyone else, Aunt Suzi clapped and Aunt Min huffed.

Stop it. She’s nervous.

More flashing came from the cameras.

Moni swept her gaze across the room, ensuring she connected with each person present.

Perfect.

Chen leaned my way. “She’s doing just fine.”

I nodded.

She directed her attention to the reporters and gave them a welcoming smile. "Together, we can build a future that honors our past while moving forward with strength and unity.”

The room buzzed with excitement at her words and I couldn't help but feel another swell of pride as I watched her. I was learning more and more that Moni had a way with people that was so honest and pure and seeing her win over the hearts of the East with such grace and sincerity made me want to get on my knees and propose to her.

Father tilted my way and whispered. “Chanel could have never done this.”

I glared at him.

He shrugged and returned to watching her.

Moni took another deep breath. “I am committed to this journey and to each one of you."

The reporters were visibly thrilled, their cameras clicking rapidly, capturing every moment, and I could hear murmurs of admiration spreading through the group.

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