Dad frowned deeply, the room descending into a tense silence.
After a moment, he suggested, "I've arranged to meet with Uncle George for dinner tonight. Why don't you come and discuss it with him?"
That evening, dressed and ready, I rode with my parents to the restaurant.
Upon arriving, I pushed open the door to the private dining room, and my heart stopped for a second.
Jack was there, casually dressed in a black T-shirt, looking as charming as ever.
I managed a brief glance at him before warmly greeting his dad, "Hello, Uncle George."
Uncle George smiled warmly and nodded, "Ginny, it's been too long. You've grown so much. Come, join us for dinner."
I nodded and deliberately chose a seat next to my mom, avoiding sitting by Jack.
His reaction was palpable; he paused while pulling out a chair, then pushed it back in, his expression turning sour.
Noticing the awkwardness between us, his dad tried to keep Jack involved with me.
He served me food and filled my glass, yet our interaction was constrained and uncomfortable.
Maybe it was all the water, but soon, I excused myself to use the restroom.
As I left the room, the door to an adjacent room opened as well.