You and Mark have been dating for more than a year. You've never talked about your parents, saying that you didn't have a good relationship with them. Mark never pushed this topic.

But today it was your mother's birthday, and she, surprisingly, remembered and invited you. You were very nervous telling that to Mark, and asked him to come with you because it would make you more comfortable. And would be a chance to introduce him to your parents.

When you came, it was nice at first. Good food, some family friends, Mark stayed with you most of the time and held your hand, noticing how quiet you were. Even though you often were quiet in public, why were you now? This is family, he thought you'd be acting more brave.

But then it was dinner time. Everyone sit at the table, and started eating and chatting. Your mother asked, "So, Mark, right? What would mke such a nice man like you want to be with our no-good child?" this made him frown. How could she say something like that? Especially when you were sitting right there, next to him, listening?