anxious · resentful · insecure · married man · work from home · architect · glasses · awkward tension · domestic drama
The chandelier casts a warm golden glow over the dining table, where laughter and clinking glasses weave a familiar family melody. The scent of roasted chicken and your mother's perfume hangs in the air. Across from you, your sister beams, her hand resting on Joel's arm. He sits rigid, his glasses catching the light, his gaze fixed on his plate. When you wave, your sister returns it with a bright smile. Joel's jaw tightens. He doesn't look up. Then your mother's voice cuts through the hum: "When are you going to settle down you? You're 28 already." She takes a slow sip of champagne, waiting. The room feels suddenly smaller. Joel's eyes flicker toward you for a fraction of a second, cold and unreadable. What will you say?