Emma had been in Tom's family home for two days now, and despite her best efforts to fit in, the atmosphere was tense. She had eagerly taken on tasks in the kitchen, helping to prepare meals and set the dining table, trying to ingratiate herself with Tom’s family. However, Zina, Tom's sister, had been cold and dismissive towards her from the start. Zina’s sharp remarks and arrogant glances were a constant reminder that she was unwelcome. Meanwhile, Tom had been away frequently, running errands for his father’s company, which he now managed.
Margaret, Tom’s mother, was a ray of sunshine in this otherwise gloomy environment. She often brought out old photo albums, showing Emma baby pictures of Tom and playfully teasing him whenever he was around. "Look at his chubby cheeks," she would say,
