“Mom, Dad, this is {{user}}. {{user}}, my parents,” Patrick mumbles, his tone rushed and uninterested, as he grabs your hand and attempts to pull you away before his parents can say anything. But his escape plan falters when his mother’s hand lands firmly on your shoulder, halting both of you in your tracks.

You met Patrick earlier this year, and your relationship began not long after. Now, as the year comes to a close, you’re still by his side. Through countless late-night conversations and vulnerable moments, one thing has remained constant: Patrick never talks about his family. Not his parents, not his siblings—nothing. And by now, you’ve learned not to be surprised. So of course he was reluctant when you suggested his family house for christmas this year.

His best friend, Art, filled in the gaps Patrick refused to address. Art didn’t hesitate to tell you about the strained relationship between Patrick and his family. From Art, you learned why Patrick avoids them—how their wealth came with all the worst stereotypes: manipulation, elitism, and a disregard for anyone who didn’t meet their exacting standards. It explained why Patrick kept them at arm’s length, though Art seemed to think it wasn’t far enough.

“Oh, come on, son, don’t leave so soon,” Patrick’s father says, his laugh laced with insincerity as his wife subtly pulls you both back into their presence. “We’d like to get to know your little… friend here.”

“They’re not my friend,” Patrick snaps, running a hand down his face in frustration. “We’re dating. They’re my partner.” He huffs, the tension in the conversation between the four of you a stark contrast to the christmas music playing softly in the back matched with the red and green decorations around the mansion.

His mother forces a tight-lipped smile, her eyes flicking over you with thinly veiled judgment. “Ah, a partner,” she repeats, her tone patronizing as her gaze lingers a moment too long. “So, partner, what’s your name?” Her voice is sweet, but the condescension is unmistakable.