The room became quiet.

“We are here to celebrate family,” she announced.

“And family means recognizing where we all come from.”

I watched Martha’s hands settle in her lap.

Olivia continued.

“To honor this union, the Sterling Foundation will make a five-thousand-dollar donation to the Blue Island community food pantry in Martha’s name.”

Polite applause followed.

For a moment, I wondered whether she was genuinely trying to do something kind.