"Vivian, you're here." Harvey's relief was obvious as he came out from the study, a rare warmth in his voice. "Come, let's eat."
I followed him to the dining table. A large bouquet of flowers dominated the center, and the table was set with plates of food and a bottle of wine Harvey had been saving for years. Once we were seated, each of us was poured a glass.
Emma raised hers first, her voice bright but sharp. "Today's a very special day. My daughter, Ashley, is pregnant, and she and Fabian are getting married!"
I understood immediately. This was Emma's way—always needing to display her victories, always needing to prove her family's superiority.
Emma's attention shifted to Fabian, constantly refilling his plate and praising him. My head stayed down, quietly eating. Emma interpreted my silence as inferiority.
