MARIA'S POV
The ongoing reception buzzed with excitement in every corner of the grand hall.
Mr. Fred McAlister had undoubtedly elevated the entire wedding experience. I could only marvel at the extravagance of the decorations and the excess. To him, it appeared more than a mere contract; he genuinely seemed happy on behalf of the couple, Connor and me.
As the reception neared its end, I found myself standing with my uncle Adam, who had recently come to town to assume the role of a father for me.
"Maria, my dear, it's really not something you should thank me for. It is my responsibility; your mom and I are all we've got, and I take her child as my own," he said, placing a hand on my cheek and offering a calm smile. My father was gone, and he was the only child of his deceased parents.
