The first signs of trouble emerged when Ryan's mother, Elizabeth Sullivan, a formidable woman with a perfectly coiffed blonde bob and a penchant for designer suits, invited Emma to a fancy dinner party at their luxurious Upper East Side penthouse. The moment Emma walked through the door, she felt out of place. The opulent decor, with its marble floors and priceless artworks, was a stark contrast to her modest apartment.
During dinner, Elizabeth made a series of thinly - veiled remarks. "So, Emma, I hear you're a graphic designer. It must be so... creative. But don't you worry about the stability of such a career?" she asked, a condescending smile on her face.
Emma tried to be polite, but she could feel her temper rising. "I'm very passionate about my work, and I've been doing quite well for myself," she replied, her voice firm.
Elizabeth then turned to Ryan. "Ryan, dear, I was thinking we should start planning that trip to Europe we talked about. You know, the one with the Huntingtons and the Carltons."
Ryan looked uncomfortable. "Mom, I'm not sure if I can make it. I've been really busy, and I also want to spend time with Emma."
Elizabeth's eyes flickered with annoyance. "But Ryan, these are important business connections. And I'm sure Emma can find something to do while you're away."
That was the last straw for Emma. When they got home, she exploded. "Why do you let her talk to me like that? And why are you even considering going on that trip? You know how I feel about being left out!"
Ryan tried to calm her down. "Emma, she's just old - fashioned. She doesn't mean any harm. And the trip is important for my career."
But Emma wasn't listening. "So your career is more important than me? Than us?" she shouted, her eyes filled with tears.
The argument escalated, and they ended up going to bed angry, with a cold silence between them.