It was spaghetti night. Diane insisted on using the “good” plates—white porcelain with gold trim—even though Mark was guaranteed to drop his fork three times.
Anna sat quietly, twirling pasta, letting the voices wash over her.
Lily was talking about a new internship
Lily Northwest
They're merging with a Paris firm. I might get to go overseas.
Diane Northwest
See? That's what happens when you push yourself.
Anna's fork paused mid-twirl. She glanced up, wondering if that was a jab.
Alan cleared his throat.
Alan Northwest
I finished that coding course, by the way.
Marcus Northwest
That's wonderful, son,
Marcus said, reaching to pour him more juice.
Lily raised an eyebrow
Lily Northwest
Anna, you haven't said anything. What's new with you?
Anna hesitated.
Anna Northwest
I started sketching something... Different. A collection inspired by vintage lingerie, but modernized. It's really personal-
Diane cut in
Diane Northwest
Just make sure it doesn't look trashy. You don't want people getting the wrong idea.
Silence. Anna set her fork down. Marcus tried to step in.
Marcus Northwest
I'm sure it's tasteful. Anna always has a good eye.
Diane shrugged.
Diane Northwest
I'm just saying... Perception matters.
Lily stayed quiet, but her eyes said "I wouldn't have said it like that but I agree."
Mark suddenly blurted,
Mark Northwest
I think Anna's clothes are cool, She made my superhero cape!
The table chuckled. The tension cracked just barely. But Anna was already shrinking inside, her appetite gone.
After the dinner, Lilly left and went back to her own apartment.
Alan and Mark went to bed,
Marcus and Diane were talking while Diane was washing the dishes.
Anna was in her room, thinking "am I really like worth it or I did something that in my past life that is affecting me in this life. Maybe I not perfect at all." she tried to fake a smile
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