The gathering didn't drag on for too long, and soon enough, Ian's mother decided it was time to leave. Before doing so, she took one last scrutinizing glance around the house, including the bedroom. "So, you really are living together with this woman," she remarked, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "Next time, I expect you both to attend my invitation." With that, she turned on her heel and exited, leaving a tense.
Ian's frown deepened, his irritation barely concealed. Despite his frustration with the ongoing situation, he maintained a calm demeanor. He took a measured sip from his glass of wine, trying to maintain his composure.
"I didn't realize you had what it takes to go toe-to-toe with my mom in a game of snide remarks," Ian said, as if he were genuinely impressed.
"You're not upset with me for talking back to your mom? I mean, she's your mom and all. Aren't you supposed to be giving me a lecture about how I should be showing her some respect or something?" I asked, genuinely intrigued.
"Why would I be mad?" Ian asked, sounding genuinely surprised. "It's not every day I see someone who can actually stand up to my mom in a situation like that. Everyone else just cowers when she speaks, even those who have something to boast about. But you—"
"—but me, I'm just the brave soul who can actually banter with her, right?" I cut in with exaggerated enthusiasm. "And with nothing to boast about, except being a waitress at a bar," I scoffed.
"It's not really like that," Ian sighed. "I'm just genuinely impressed that you weren't terrified of her. I mean, it's not every day you see someone who can actually stand their ground."
"Well, I'm really sorry to say this, but I absolutely despise how your mom puts people down just because they don't have her so-called 'reputation.' Maybe she should learn to get along with anyone, regardless of their status."
" I should probably apologize for everything she threw at you," he said, his tone earnest and regretful. "That's why I was thinking of dressing you in something that would align with her taste and standards—I just didn't want you to be treated like that earlier." He approached me as he spoke. I nodded, acknowledging his words.
"I get it, but it's better for her to know how things really are now rather than later, when I might look all glamorous and it turns out I didn't even cover the costs myself."
He flashed a grin and said, "Well, you know how mom is—she won't stop, and I'm sure you'll still run into her. Hope you've still got that same brave attitude you had earlier."
"Is that a compliment or a threat?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.
"It's all up to you how you see it," he said with a smirk. "And by the way, fabulous choice of outfit for a lunch gathering. I just adore your spirit today."
I got back into my routine on Monday, just like any other day. While I was in the middle of my work, Jade suddenly popped up beside me, pointing to a table with a guy who looked oddly familiar. As I squinted to figure out who it was, I was taken aback to see it was Jax. When he caught me looking, he gave a casual wave and a smile.
"Look at that—he's here for you and looking sharp," Jade said with a hint of excitement.
"Seriously, Jade? Cut it out," I said, shaking my head. I made my way over to Jax.
"Hey, Jax, didn't think you'd drop by to drink." I said smiling at him.
"Yeah, I came for a drink, but honestly, the main reason was to see you. Hope that's alright. Just carry on with your work—feel free to ignore me if you need to."
