The Lee mansion
The family ( Ashley and Ally) of four were engrossed in their conversation. Laughter could be heard; they were buzzing, drinking wine while waiting for Junior to arrive before dinner. The table was set with fine chine and crystal glasses, reflecting the flickering candlelight
Soon, the sound of the front door opening echoed through the mansion, followed by Junior hand in hand with Rain. Suddenly the joyous room was filled with silence and awkward stares, especially from the two sisters Ashley and Ally.
"I thought this was a family dinner, Dad," Ashley, being always forward, asked.
"Yes, it is, Ashley. Play nice."
"But she's not family."Junior, sensing the tension, gently squeezed Rain's hand and stepped forward. "Everyone, this is Rain. She's very special to me, and I wanted you all to meet her."
Rain, with a warm smile, extended her hand. "It's lovely to meet you all. I've heard so much about this wonderful family."
Ally, always the peacemaker, broke into a smile "Welcome, Rain."
"Be nice, she saved your father's life, okay," Junior's mom stood up with a fake smile. "Dr. Murray, what a lovely surprise."
"Please, call me Rain," my voice soft yet confident. The room's atmosphere began to thaw as i continued, "I'm just happy to be here and to finally meet the people who mean so much to Junior."
Ashley, still skeptical but trying to hide it, glanced at her sister. Ally nodded slightly, encouraging her to give Rain a chance. Taking a deep breath, Ashley forced a smile. "Well, any friend of Junior's is a friend of ours. Please, join us."
Junior guided me to an empty chair next to his, pulling it out before taking his own seat.
Dr. Murray Ashley said, "A toast to you for saving my father." She gulped the whole glass of wine. "Oh, where are my manners? Cindy, please pour wine for our guest."
"Water will be fine, thank you," I said to Cindy before she disappeared into the kitchen.
Ashley said angrily, "It's rude in our house to say no to our toast."
Enough Ashley Junior said
Enough, what Junior, this is our family. What business does she have to be here? Didn't you compensate her for saving Dad? Now you are walking hand in hand; what is that? Where is Rose?
"Enough, Ashley!" Junior's voice was firm but calm, trying to keep the situation from escalating further. "Rain is here because she means a lot to me, and I hoped you all would welcome her. And stop mentioning unimportant people"
A heavy silence settled over the table. Ally, sensing the tension, quickly intervened. "Why don't we all enjoy this beautiful meal Mom prepared? I'm sure we can get to know Rain better over dinner."