“Well, maybe you don’t get it,” I reply coolly.
The whole table goes silent. I wrap my arm around Sara and flash a fake smile.
“I brought her because she makes me happy. She’s driven and determined.”
“Yeah, determined to get into that bank account of yours.”
“That’s rich coming from you, Cass, since you only made your wealth by manipulating a man you married to give you half of his.”
The entire table gasps at those words, and Aunt Cass sits there, staring at me.
“That’s not how you should talk to your aunt, Robert.”
“Sara’s a good person, and maybe you should learn to open your heart instead of letting some botched plastic surgery do the talking.”
Aunt Cass glowers. Good, let her be mad. I forgot that she would even be here in the first place. She sighs, turning her body away.
Looking at Sara I smile and mouth the words “I’m sorry” hoping to help her through this unpleasant situation.
My mom and dad don’t say anything. I clear my throat, attempting to change the subject as best as I can.
“So, Mom, Dad, you’re thinking of moving out here? Would be a distance away, for sure.”
“Yes. We’re thinking about it. But it’s still on the table,” my father replies.
“Indeed. And I’ve got to finish a couple of client projects before we do that,” he adds.
I smile, ignoring the obvious dirty look on Cassie’s face. She doesn’t want anything to do with me, that’s for sure, and I’m quite glad.
“I’m excited to hear what you decide. And if you do move, we’ll visit.”
“Yes, we’d like that,” my father spits out. I think he missed the “we” in that statement but Sara sure didn’t. I think she is totally shell-shocked at this point.
Our food comes, saving the day once again. We eat, but it doesn’t stop the angry stares from Aunt Cass and Uncle Willie. Let them be mad. Clearly, they don’t really care about anyone but themselves.
Uncle Willie jokes a lot, but he’s also a snide trader who made his wealth through shady deals. Aunt Cass is just a weird homewrecker who only cares about dollar signs.
After we finish dinner, they disappear right away. My mom rolls her eyes.
“I’m sorry about that,” Mom says.
“It’s fine. I’ve wanted to say that for a while.”
“I know, Robert,” mom replies. “Are you sure about this though?” She’s nodding toward Sara.
I look over at Sara, who’s in conversation with my father. I nod.
“Yes, Mom. She’s a great person, and I don’t want you guys judging her just because she’s a bit on the younger end. And I can assure you with no reservations that she is not after my money! That’s just not her.”
“I believe you, dear. It’s just a surprise. But, whatever you do, I’ll support you.”
I appreciate her words. At least there’s someone here who’s not being dismissive.
“Appreciate it. Thanks, Mom.”
My folks head out, going in the direction of my father’s place. He built a summer home that he rents out on this island. I turn, looking at Sara.
“Want to get out of here?”