Sharon's Plight

Chapter 18

Why do I feel so confused? Am I a fraud? Sharon scolded herself. She hurried out of her favourite gift shop after a long morning of shopping.

Stepping into the car, her phone beeped. The caller ID was Mrs Finland.

"Morning, Mrs Finland, and happy birthday to you."

"Thank you, Sharon, for the wishes. Looking forward to seeing you soon."

"You bet," Sharon happily answered. "I am finishing up in town, will head home for a change of clothes and be at your as soon as possible."

"That's great. Come to think of it, have you been to my place before?" probed Mrs Finland.

Sharon paused, as though thinking, before replying. "To tell the truth, no. I am so looking forward to it."

"Let me leave you to get on with your busy day, Sharon."

A dilemma, to be sure! Am I eager about this party, or George, or been in the company of their family before? What will George describe me as? Does Sharon fit their desired description?

A sudden gust of wind carried her thoughts out the window and out of her mind.

An hour later, Sharon was driving towards the exclusive gates of a large, red-bricked mansion. She pressed the entry button after identifying herself. The gates to the driveway opened on its own accord.

Driving towards the grand mansion, tension tied her intestines into a fierce knot.

George, he grew up here! Now I know why he acted like a spoilt brat.

She drove to the front of the flamboyant building, where stewards waited to park her car. She stepped out into the setting sun. The main door flung opened, and George rushed out.

"You are here, Beautiful? I thought you would have..." breathless George paused.

"I keep my word, remember?" Sharon laughed.

"Sure, but not if you want to avoid George." Stretching out his hands for hers.

Responding with a glowing smile, she slipped her hands into his. "You bet."

"Sharon, on a serious note, I thought you would find a reason not to attend. I was already looking out, thinking that you would not come."

"George, oh no! This is for your mother. I can't, not appear."

"You have a charming effect on Mum." He drew her close to him, but she nudged away, avoiding his affectionate gesture.

She ignored it and replied, "You can say that again."

"You can say that again," Mrs Finland echoed as they entered the house. She walked toward them in a beautiful creamy diamond stoned dress.

"It's always been like that, Sharon. I never hear the end of his envious comments. George has even accused me of loving you more than him."

"For real!?" She slightly removed his grip on her, showing an expression of her disapproval and embarrassment in front of George's mum.

"Thank you for inviting me. Here are my gifts for your birthday," offered Sharon.

"Thank you, Sharon. That's so thoughtful of you. Sharon, you shouldn't have bothered."

"Oh no, I would bother, and I appreciate the invite," Mrs Finland said.

As Sharon walked on, she exclaimed, "Mrs Finland, you have an exclusive home. I must commend your successful taste."

Mrs Finland apologetically interrupted, "Please excuse me, I'm on my way to get my husband."