I Went to a Restaurant…
Our relationship moved fast. WAY too fast, now that I think about it. Richard proposed just six months after we started dating, and I was so caught up in the whirlwind romance that I said yes without hesitation.
Everything about him seemed perfect, except for one thing: I hadn’t met his parents yet. They lived in another state, and Richard always had an excuse for why we couldn’t visit. But once they heard about our engagement, they insisted on meeting me.
A man holding a woman’s hand | Source: Pexels
“They’re going to love you,” Richard assured me, squeezing my hand. “I’ve booked us a table at that fancy new place downtown for Friday night.”
I spent the next few days in a panic. What should I wear? What if they didn’t like me? What if they tell Richard to leave me?
I swear I tried around a dozen outfits before settling on a classic black dress. I wanted to look sophisticated but not overdressed.
Clothes hanging on a rack | Source: Pexels
On Friday, I came home early from work and got ready. No-makeup look, cute black heels, a mini bag, and a natural hairstyle. I wanted to keep it simple but perfect for the occasion. Richard picked me up soon after.
“You look gorgeous, babe!” he said, flashing the smile I adored. “Ready?”
I nodded, trying to calm my nerves. “I really hope they like me.”
A woman in a car | Source: Midjourney
“They will, babe,” he held my hand. “After all, you’ve got everything that a parent would want to see in their child’s partner. You’re amazing inside out.”
I felt a bit relieved at that point, but I still wasn’t ready for the drama that was about to unfold.
A few minutes later, we entered the restaurant, and I thought it was stunning. Crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, and soft piano music filled the air. It was the kind of place where even the water glasses looked expensive.
Tableware in a restaurant | Source: Pexels
We spotted Richard’s parents at a table near the window. His mother, Isabella, a petite woman with perfectly coiffed hair, stood up as we approached. Meanwhile, his father, Daniel, who seemed quite stern, remained seated.
“Oh, Richard!” his mother cooed as we approached her, completely ignoring me. She wrapped Richard in a tight hug, then held him at arm’s length. “You look so weak. Have you lost weight? Are you eating enough?”
A worried woman talking to her son | Source: Midjourney
I stood there awkwardly until Richard finally remembered me.
“Mom, Dad, this is Clara, my fiancée.”
His mother looked at me from head to toe.
“Oh yes, hello dear,” she gave a smile that was not quite reaching her eyes.
As we sat down, I tried to start a conversation.
