I had just arrived after working almost twelve hours at my office. My name is Mariana. I am thirty-seven years old, and for four years, I had been married to Daniel, Theresa’s youngest son.
I sat down next to my husband, expecting at least a quick greeting. Daniel didn’t even look up.
“You’re late,” he muttered, carving off another piece of steak.
Theresa took the finest cut, added a spoonful of garlic shrimp, and set the loaded plate directly in front of Lauren. “Eat up, sweetie. At least you know how to spoil this family.”
Lauren beamed like she had just won a prize. “Oh, Mom, you’re always so good to me.”
Her husband, Aaron—Daniel’s older brother—burst out laughing. “That’s because Lauren has class. Not everyone knows how to live well.”
I stayed silent.
