"We Never Fail In Love Anymore, Calista."
1432 Words
CALISTA.
"I've heard your father is in critical condition, Calista."
I gripped the fork in my hand tighter than I should have, trying to keep my expression neutral. The sound of small laughter from the dining table still echoed in my ears, even though I knew there was nothing funny about their conversation.
"Your father works as a mechanic, yes?" asked Sean's mother in a tone that sounded relaxed, although there was a faint glint in her eyes that made me feel uncomfortable.
"Yes, Amber. He's very good at his job," I replied, trying to sound confident despite the dryness in my throat.
"Oh, sure, sure," she agreed with a small smile. "I guess it's an... honest job, huh? But it must be really hard, huh, supporting a family with a job like that."
I felt my eyes narrow slightly, but I quickly controlled myself. Sean, who was sitting next to me, looked agitated.
He tried to interject, "Mom, Calista's father is a hard worker. He built the workshop from scratch, and now it's very successful."
"Oh, sure, Sean," his mother replied, waving her hand as if it didn't matter. "But I mean, there must be a limit, right? I mean, look at our family. We're lucky to have more opportunities."
I forced a smile, even though inside, it felt like there were embers burning in my chest. "My father did work hard, Tante. And he always taught us to appreciate every achievement, no matter how small."
"Ah, sure, that's a good point," one of Sean's sisters said in a sweet tone, which actually sounded more painful. "But I'm curious, Calista, do you and Sean have any plans to... well, balance out the differences in lifestyle, is that it?"
I looked at Sean, hoping he would say something, but he just smiled nervously. Before he could answer, I took a deep breath and decided to speak for myself.
"I don't think our lifestyles are so different," I said in a firm, but still polite tone. "What matters most to me are the values we carry, and how we support each other."
The room was silent for a moment. I could feel Sean's mother's gaze on me, considering my answer. Then she smiled again, colder this time.
"Oh, of course, Calista. It's very kind of you to think that. Sean does need someone who can keep his feet on the ground."
I wanted to reply, but Sean suddenly held my hand under the table, signaling me to stop. I bit my lip, swallowing the annoyance churning in my chest.
That night felt like an endless test of patience. I didn't know how it would end, but one thing was for sure—they could denigrate my background, but I wouldn't let them touch my pride.
I knew tonight wouldn't be easy, but I never imagined it would be this hard. Around the dining table decorated with candles and expensive china, the implied words continued to flow like a bone-chilling stream of water.
"So, Calista," Mrs. Sean's voice was soft, but with a tone that made every word feel like a test.
My throat was constricted now. I clearly realized Amber was trying to push me to a low. Just from the glint in her eyes... the quiet yet deadly glint, I knew she was mocking me.
"How did you prepare for... hm, coming into a family like ours? I mean, of course you know, being married to Sean means a lot more responsibility."
I put down the fork carefully, making sure my hands weren't shaking.
"I think marriage is about supporting each other, Tante. We're both ready to take on all those responsibilities together."
Sean's mom smiled a little, but there was no warmth there.
"Oh, of course. But you know, marriage isn't just about love, right? There are... expectations. Traditions. Sean comes from a family with a long history. I think it's important for his life partner to understand that."
I was about to reply when Sean's father spoke up, his voice heavy and firm. "We just want to make sure you're ready, Calista. Not everyone can adjust to our... environment."
I looked at Sean, hoping he'd come to my defense like he usually did. But he just looked down, fiddling awkwardly with his fork. I knew he felt sandwiched between me and his family, but his silence made my chest feel tight.
"Thank you for your concern," I said finally, trying to sound firm even though I felt like I was walking a thin tightrope.
"I appreciate all your traditions and expectations. But I also believe, what matters most is how we support and respect each other as a couple."
Sean's mother smiled again, colder this time. "Sure, Calista. But you know, living with Sean means more than just supporting each other. There's a family name to maintain. It's not something to be taken lightly."
I felt the chill in the air grow more piercing. The warning was clear, even though it was wrapped in a polite—sounding sentence. They weren't sure I was good enough for Sean.
I tried to calm myself, taking a deep breath before speaking. "I understand, Amber. But I also believe that a strong family name is built on support, love, and cooperation. And I'm ready to do that with Sean."
The room was silent for a moment. I could feel their gazes judging every word that came out of my mouth. But before the atmosphere grew tense, Sean finally spoke.
"Mom, Dad," he said in a voice that sounded firmer than usual. "Calista is my choice. And I believe she's capable. We should be supporting, not judging."
I glanced at Sean, relief and gratitude flooding my chest. But I knew this wasn't the end of it. Their warning wasn't just about me, but about the long journey I would face if I kept choosing Sean.
***
"Sean," I called softly, approaching the chair next to him.
He didn't immediately turn his head, just took a deep breath as if trying to calm himself down. Finally, he shook his head softly as he said, "I really let you down, Calista."
I sat on the chair next to him, looking down at his downcast face. The face that was usually full of confidence now looked fragile, haunted by the guilt she couldn't hide.
"You didn't disappoint me," I said, trying to touch her hand. But she withdrew it slowly, as if feeling unworthy of my comfort.
"How can you say that?" He finally turned his head, his eyes filled with guilt that pained me to see.
"What did you do?" I asked, forcing myself to laugh even though it sounded awkward.
"I let them say things that hurt you. I sat there like a coward, doing nothing. I couldn't even stand up for the woman I love."
I took his hand again, tighter this time, making sure he didn't pull away.
"Sean, listen to me," I said firmly. "You're wrong for being silent, yes. But that doesn't mean you don't care. I know you care. I can see it in your eyes. And I know this is just as hard for you."
He looked down again, his jaw tightening. "I should have been stronger. I should have protected you. But I was too afraid... afraid to fight them. They're my family, Calista. But you're my family too. I feel like I failed you both."
I leaned closer, shifting my chair to be closer to him.
"Sean, you don't have to choose. I don't want to make you feel that way. But what I need from you is your faith. Maybe, if you keep holding my hand, I can walk with you."
She looked up, looking at me with eyes that were starting to tear up.
"I just don't want to lose you. But I feel like I'm pushing you away with my foolishness."
I shook my head, grasping both his hands tightly.
"You won't lose me, Sean. I'm right here. I know it's hard, but we can get through it. Together. I don't need you to be perfect. I just need you to try, for us."
He looked at me deeply, then nodded slowly. "I will try, Calista. I promise. I'll be better for you, for us."
I smiled a little, though my heart still felt heavy. I knew words wouldn't be enough, but I believed in him. I believed in us. So, I decided to stay by her side, that night and the nights that followed, waiting for the moment she truly found her strength.
- Writer
