The Office Curve

Rare, Medium, Well You've Done Pissed Her Off!

Tonight may have been about having a nice dinner with the family, but all eyes were trained on Kaim and I, the centers of attention. Karyn continued to sulk in the background and Gordon and my mother came to receive us, still grinning and fawning all over us. Kaim and I exchanged puzzled looks, and I wondered why they seemed to be so pleased at the sight of us.  It's not like my mother ever fussed at me for being single or tut-tutted me for not being married.  She was always so focused on Karyn and all her exploits.  But as she continued to smile, I got the feeling that she liked what she saw.  I would even so as far as to say that she seemed happy for me.

Imagine that.

"I hope we didn't keep you all too long," I began, just as Kaim wrapped his arm around my waist.  "I kinda went overboard getting ready tonight, but that's no excuse."

"Nonsense, Zara, you're just fine," Gordon said with a smile.  "After an entrance like that, you can be forgiven.  I've never seen you look so resplendant."

"Really?"  I caught Karyn rolling her eyes, but she kept quiet.  "I'm glad to hear that.  I wanted to make sure that I look nice for you and Mom."

"You didn't have to go through all the trouble, sweetheart," my mom cooed.  "Just by the both of you showing up fully clothed, you've pleased us immensely."

"Ah..."  My face was flushed with crimson.  "Right..."

Kaim took that as his cue.  "Allow me for formally introduce myself," he began, extending his hand to my mother.  "My name is Kaim Harris - the man that you unfortunately had to see in nothing but a towel the first time around."

"Oh, I wouldn't say it was unfortunate."  I snickered as Gordon sniffed at my mother, not very pleased with her admission.  "But it's so good to properly meet you.  Now, maybe I can find out more about your other than what Zara has admitted."

"But of course.  I always aim to please."  I couldn't stop the giggle from coming out.  "I especially aim to please a beautiful woman such as yourself.  It's impossible not to."

"Oh my!"  My mom placed her hand on her heart, throwing her head back and letting out the most feminine laugh I've ever heard.  Usually, she just bursts out laughing, scaring anyone who isn't prepared for the intensity.  But she actually seemed charmed and flustered.  Damn, he's good.  "You're quite the charmer, aren't you?  I can see why my daughter is taken by you!"

"And you can take my fiance too, for the right place," Gordon deadpanned to.  "Just name your price."

We broke out into a loud chorus of laughter, and while I was thankful that we all seemed to be getting along, I couldn't help but feel like we were missing something ominous, something unpleasant.  The sound of Karyn clearing her throat, however, reminded me that we weren't alone, and that it was crazy to think this night would be halfway decent, considering she was around.

"Oh, don't worry about us, we're fine here," she chastised.  "Never mind that you're supposed to introduce a new guest to everyone."

I gritted my teeth, wishing that someone would shove that passive aggressiveness up her ass.  "I'm sorry, where are my manners?  Kaim, this is my sister, Karyn, and her fiance, Lenin.  I'm sure you remember her from that fateful day at the apartment as well."

"Yes, of course.  I could never forget a slightly embarrassed face."  Lenin chuckled at the remark, but Karyn wasn't not amused.  Nor did I expect her to be. "It's a pleasure to be introduced to you formally, Karyn.  I've heard a lot about you."

"Oh, I bet you have."  She glared at me and I stared right back, unapologetic for the truths I have spoken.  "Still, it's nice to meet someone so pleasant and respectful.  Perhaps some of that will rub off on my sister."