Desserts & Dramas

Chapter 2

 Sofia didn't know how to answer her mother, because in fact everything was exactly as she imagined. She lowered her shoulders and gave up:

"All right, I think it's perfect."

"It really is." Marta smiled at her daughter, "You've been away for so long, you should go enjoy the party and talk to your friends."

"They are Alice and Tomás' friends, mom. Since I've been away, I haven't had as much contact."

"Vivian is here, you two are very close, I know."

"I'll look her up, I haven't really talked to her yet." Sofia nodded.

"And how could you? Since you came back you only think about work. Where is the work balance?" Marta argued.

"I need to develop my business, mom. I can't let the contacts disappear. And you know I have big plans. The events are going well, the bakery too, despite its recent opening, now..."

"Now it's time for the popular desserts franchise," Marta cut her off, "I know, dear, I've heard it a thousand times. But life isn't all work, especially..."

"You and Dad took a long time to understand this," was Sofia's turn to interrupt.

"That's why we don't want you to make the same mistake. When Alice decided to study medicine, I thought she would be like us, but she got involved in Law School and met Tomás. And look where we are?" Marta looked around with her hands up. She continued: "Now it's your turn Sofia."

"To get married, mother?" Sofia sneered.

"No, to enjoy life." Marta was direct "You know that your father and I have taught you that you can do whatever you want, it only depends on you and no one else. If a marriage is part of the plans, that's fine, the important thing is that it's your choice and that you are happy with it. Which doesn't mean that you can't have good company throughout life, friends," Marta looked deep into Sofia's eyes, "and boyfriends."

"I know the freedom you have taught us is much more than many parents want for their children, but my focus right now is on my career, mom. I think I'm at the right moment to take a risk and try a new business."

Marta was determined and opposed her daughter:

"You need a little more moderation at work and less in your social life. Have you met Tomas' friends?"

"I've met Eric, but he's dating Samanta, Mom."

"Eric doesn't know what's good for him, such a sweet boy needs a lovely girl like him."

"We can't have any influence on his relationships, we're not even close."

"He is like a brother to Tomás, and Tomás is now family, so..."

"I understand your point, Mrs. Marta, but I still think it's better that nobody knows about your plans for his relationship."

"All right, you've won this battle. But there are other boys you can make friends with," and added a suggestive tone as she said the last word. "There's Arthur, Tomas' cousin, Gabriel, his friend too, there's Daniel, Alice's college friend, and many other friends. You just have to get away from those sweeties and mingle at the party." With that said, Marta went behind Sofia and directed her back into the hall. "I don't want to see you near this table again."

Sofia had no choice but to walk away. She decided to look for Vivian to catch up, which wasn't too hard to do, as she was wearing a short bright red dress with a very generous neckline.

"Hi Viv!"

"Sofi, I missed you!" Vivian gave Sofia a tight hug. Really tight.

"So did I. We didn't manage to talk so much the times we went out with Alice and Tomás."

"That's right, Sofi, those were nights of recognition, I need focus to put a ring on my finger."

"Are you sure this is the best way to find a husband?" asked Sofia.