“Mom, we can talk about that later.”
“No, Michael. The presentation was announced publicly. I should correct the expectation publicly.”
I took a breath.
“I had prepared a substantial property gift for the newlyweds. But the proposed transfers have not been completed, and I have instructed my attorney not to proceed.”
A low murmur spread through the ballroom.
Sabrina set down her glass.
“What?” she said.
I continued.
“The properties remain mine. No deeds have been signed or delivered, and I won’t be presenting them as wedding gifts tonight.”
Sabrina rushed toward the stage.
“You can’t do that!”
Michael raised a hand.
“Sabrina, wait.”
She ignored him.
“You promised us those properties!”
“I told Michael I intended to make a wedding gift,” I replied. “I hadn’t completed it.”
“You told everyone!”
“Actually, I discussed the proposal privately with Michael and my attorney. I don’t know how the amount became such a popular topic tonight.”
Sabrina glanced toward the tables.
A number of guests were watching her now.
Her expression tightened.
“You’re doing this to punish me.”
I looked at her for a moment.
“Why would you think that, Sabrina?”
She didn’t answer.
Michael stepped between us.
“Mom, please. Let’s go somewhere private.”
I nodded.
“That’s a good idea.”
I picked up my wig and the ivory card.
