“So, the reason I asked all of you to come here today is because I have something to share,” she began in a soft, trembling voice. One was nervous. Looking down, she noticed that her hands were shaking slightly. She found herself hesitating to continue, wondering how people would react.
“I know that a few months ago, everyone was divided about me marrying Haru,” one said. Several people in the front row nodded in agreement, and a few shouted affirmatively, “Of course!” with a hint of anger in their voices.
“I understand why you had that opinion about me, but it’s not right.” Hana continued to speak. She noticed a few surprised looks among the audience. And when she said her next words, the room was filled with tension. The villagers were stunned. One word echoed in their heads: “I did not marry Haru for love or money.”