Before Thomas could respond, his eyes settled on Mom.
His stern expression softened into one of surprise and warmth.
“Maria?” he asked, taking a step closer.
Mom blinked, equally stunned. “Thomas? Is that really you?”
A smile broke across his face.
“It’s been years! What brings you here?”
“She’s here with me,” I said quickly. “We came to celebrate.
I just defended my PhD.”
Thomas’s expression turned serious again as he looked at Richard. “You’ve made a mistake,” he said, his tone icy.
Richard looked confused. “Sir?”
“Maria is a dear friend of mine,” Thomas said, his voice cutting through the room.
“And you’ve insulted her on what should be a joyful occasion.”
“I—I didn’t realize,” Richard stammered, his confidence faltering. “I thought—”
“You thought wrong,” Thomas snapped. “Your behavior is unacceptable.
Disrespect has no place in this establishment.”
He turned to us, his demeanor shifting back to warmth. “Maria, Alice, please forgive this terrible misunderstanding. You are my honored guests tonight.
Let me personally seat you.”
Richard’s smirk had vanished, replaced by a look of utter humiliation. Thomas clapped his hands, signaling another staff member.
“Richard,” he said, “you’ll be taking over cleaning duties for the evening. Perhaps it will teach you some humility.”
Richard nodded meekly, avoiding everyone’s gaze as he shuffled off.
Thomas led us to a prime table by the window.
The view of the city lights was stunning, but it was nothing compared to the glow on Mom’s face.
“Anything you need, just let me know,” Thomas said warmly.
Other patrons glanced our way, their earlier judgment replaced with curiosity and guilt. Mom’s shoulders relaxed, and for the first time that night, she smiled freely.
As we dined, I watched Mom enjoy every bite, her pride in me evident.
“Thank you, Alice,” she said, reaching for my hand. “I’ll never forget this.”
“Neither will I, Mom,” I replied, my heart full.
The night had started with humiliation, but it ended in dignity and love.
A memory we would cherish forever.
