I nodded slowly. I said nothing. I just nodded because every word that came out of their mouths was just another reason to wait, to let them keep talking, to let them feel secure on their pedestal.
Michael finally looked at me. For a second, I saw something in his eyes—guilt? shame? I’m not sure—but it disappeared as quickly as it appeared.
“Mom,” he said softly. “Are you okay? You’re very quiet.”
“I’m perfectly fine,” I replied calmly. “I’m just observing.”
Marlene let out a short laugh. “Observing. How interesting.”
She turned to her mother. “See? I told you she was quiet.”
The desserts arrived: four plates of tiramisu with edible gold flakes. Because of course, even the dessert had to be ostentatious. While they devoured their desserts, I was still there, motionless, with my glass of water that I hadn’t even touched. Condensation had formed a small puddle around the base.
I watched the drops slide down the glass, slow, like tears I wasn’t going to shed. I wouldn’t give them that pleasure.
Marlene wiped her mouth with her napkin and sighed, satisfied. “This is definitely my favorite restaurant. The quality is unmatched. Of course, it’s not for everyone’s budget.”