"You are only permitted to assist your husband at work," Mrs Thompson said, her voice firm but controlled. "I didn't work; I only assisted my husband with work. When he died, I took over the family business and trained Andrew."

Astrid's eyes narrowed. "Well, I'm not married yet, so I'm free to work."

Mrs Thompson's expression turned stern, her eyes flashing with disapproval. "You're not going to any place called work. You're getting married next week, yet you don't know the basics."

A pause hung in the air, heavy with tension.

"Do you plan to disgrace us on that day?" Mrs Thompson continued, her voice dripping with disdain. "That day...