The days leading up to the party had been filled with subtle warnings.
Two weeks before, my boyfriend started acting distant and secretive.
One week before, he had a tense argument with my mother, although I never found out what it was about.
Three days before, he was unusually quiet when I tried to discuss plans for the party.
Each moment, each interaction, seemed to build towards this inexplicable act.
Now, the atmosphere between everyone is icy.
Conversations are short, eyes constantly flicking towards my mother’s changing appearance.
No one speaks openly, but the tension is palpable.
I’m left bracing for the family meeting scheduled in two days.
They want answers, and so do I.
