Her father raised his glass to toast their success while I was left out of the celebration entirely. Kimberly looked directly at me and said they were happy to have a space without any unexpected visits from others.
Justin tried to tell her that her comments were unnecessary but she interrupted him with a fake sweetness. I realized then that my son was not just a coward but also an accomplice in this plan to hurt me.
The waiter returned to clear the plates and asked if anyone wanted to see the dessert menu. Kimberly immediately ordered the best options for four people while still ignoring my presence.
Her mother asked me what I did for work or if I had already retired from my previous jobs. Kimberly answered for me by saying that I had done mediocre work like cleaning and cooking for other people.
Her father called my hard work admirable in a condescending tone that made me feel like an employee. I nodded slowly and kept my thoughts to myself while the desserts with gold flakes were served.