Arianne forced a smile, “It’s fine, Mrs. West wasn’t aware. It’s alright. I can't have children. I’ve miscarried twice, and now I can’t get pregnant.”
Summer shot Jackson a glare, “Why didn’t you say so? I’ve brought up a taboo because of you. I’m sorry, Mark. I’m sorry, Ari. It’s alright, you’re still young. Just take good care of your health and you’ll be fine. Keep your spirits up.”
The atmosphere finally grew warmer when the dishes were served. Tiffany and Arianne had eaten a good portion prior to this so they weren’t that hungry. The pair disliked these kinds of social events. They shared a look and silently made a pact to go to the washroom together.
At the washroom, Tiffany let out a long sigh, “I’m going nuts. My mom is a really good actress. She’s clearly been driving me insane, yet she’s claiming in front of other people that her heart aches for me when I’ve been working so hard. What a joke.”
“It’s fine,” Arianne soothed, “It’s important to keep up appearances in front of others. Don’t be mad. Let’s just have a good meal while we’re here. Just eat your food and ignore them.”
Tiffany suddenly changed the topic, “Ari, Jackson’s mother is a really nice lady. She didn’t do it on purpose. The ignorant shouldn’t be blamed. Don’t be angry with her.”
Arianne shook her head, “It’s fine, I understand. It’s alright, really. I’m not that weak. No wind or wave has been able to knock me down. Should I be upset about this? Alright, compose yourself and continue your meal. I know your appetite. You’re definitely not full yet. Let’s go.”
Tiffany slapped her own cheeks, “Alright, get a grip. You can do this, Tiffany!”
The pair had just walked out of the washroom, arm in arm, when Tiffany’s spirits immediately sunk. Ethan had emerged from the private room, along with the rest of his dinner party!
Someone spotted her before she could react and reminded Ethan, “Your girlfriend is here! We won’t disturb you now. Excuse us.”
Ethan smiled at Tiffany and waved the group away. Tiffany was rooted to the spot, too afraid to move, and even more afraid of looking in Jackson’s direction. At this very moment, she felt strangely guilty.
Just as Ethan made his way towards her, Arianne stepped in front of her, “Your friends have left, Ethan. Why aren’t you leaving? Tiffie and I haven’t finished our dinner yet.”
Ethan shot a look towards Jackson’s table and caught Mark’s icy glare. He smirked, “Then I’ll be going now. I’ll talk to you later, Tiffie.”
Tiffany let out a long sigh as she watched Ethan leave. She had been shivering from nervousness. Furthermore, Ethan had used her nickname. There was no one around anymore, why was he using such an intimate name? Was he really trying to provoke her?
Lillian secretly pinched her when they returned to the table, warning her not to have any further contact with Ethan. It was clear that Jackson was a more worthwhile investment.
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