The room around them grew noticeably quieter.
Katherine's eyes flashed with irritation. "That sounds lovely, Mrs. Sullivan, but this is a charity event, and we need people who can actually contribute. Not flowery words from a poor, lost old woman."
A few people laughed awkwardly, but more guests now looked uncomfortable.
Gladis did not flinch.
"I understand what you're saying, Miss Winters," she replied. "And I understand why you think a woman like me does not belong here. But sometimes the most important things are not what we see right in front of us."
Katherine gave a cold smile. "How interesting. But I think you've chosen the wrong place to preach your morals. Maybe you should find somewhere more suitable to display your nobility."
She turned away, signaling Patricia and Eleanor to follow.
Gladis watched them go without anger. Her composure had unsettled Katherine more than any argument could have.
Then Dr. James Harris approached.
His expression changed the moment he reached Gladis. Surprise gave way to deep respect, and he inclined his head politely.
"It is an honor to meet you here, Mrs. Sullivan," he said warmly. "I had no idea you would be attending. Otherwise, I would have personally welcomed you at the door."
Gladis smiled. "You've always been thoughtful and kind, Dr. Harris. I only wanted to attend quietly, without disturbing anyone."
From across the room, Katherine noticed the exchange and stopped walking.
She turned toward Patricia and Eleanor. "Do you see that? Why is Dr. Harris acting so strangely toward that woman? He must have mistaken her for someone important."
Patricia frowned. "Maybe the hospital is trying to appear progressive. Hospitals love that kind of thing."
Katherine laughed dismissively, but the sound was less certain than before. "Exactly. Maybe they chose her to make the event look diverse and civilized."
Yet the three women could not ignore the respect in Dr. Harris's voice.
"You have no idea how much your presence means to us," he told Gladis. "I'm sure the children at the hospital will be overjoyed to know you've taken the time to join us tonight."
Gladis nodded, and emotion briefly softened her face. "I just want to do what is right, doctor. Those children deserve the best from us, don't they?"
"Yes, Mrs. Sullivan," James replied. "And it is because of people like you that true hope exists."
Guests who had been dismissing Gladis only minutes earlier began looking at her differently. Curiosity replaced mockery. Several people exchanged questioning glances.