When I go down to the kitchen, the atmosphere is already bustling. I find my mother talking with the cook, both going over the details for tonight's big dinner. As soon as I enter, they both turn their gaze towards me.
"Good morning!" I greeted, forcing a sleepy smile.
"Hi, sweetheart. Did you sleep well?" The warmth in my mother's voice feels like a deceptive balm; She approaches with affection, as if nothing could disturb the surface of our lives.
"Mmm... yeah, I slept pretty well," I replied, trying to sound natural as the maid brought over my perfectly served breakfast.
My mother uses the moment to remind me of her plans.
"We have a guest tonight. It would be nice if you joined us," she said, with that mix of suggestion and expectation that's so typical of her.
I take a bite calm
