Anna tried to calm herself down, but she still could not suppress the choked sobs rising in her throat. She looked up at Mr. Thomas and Mrs. Lauren, her reddened eyes filled with feelings too deep to put into words. After a moment of silence, she spoke softly, her voice still trembling with emotion.
"I... I'm not young anymore, Mom."
Anna's words made Mrs. Lauren frown slightly. She gently took Anna's hand, her eyes full of concern. "Anna, what are you saying? You're still young. You still have your whole life ahead of you."
Anna shook her head, and tears began to fall again. Her voice seemed caught in her throat. "But Mom, I'm not young anymore. I... how long have I been with Ricard? I don't even remember anymore. But every time I mention holding the wedding, he finds a way to avoid it. Do you know, Mom? I've truly been looking forward to that day, but as time goes on, I become more and more afraid... afraid that it will never come."
