Dinner

David sat down at the restaurant, his mind filled with a mixture of thoughts and emotions. His son, Arthur, trailed behind him, keeping quiet and reserved. Olivia, David's current fiancé, joined them at the table, greeting David and inquiring about his business trip. Art's demeanor shifted slightly, a sense of unease evident in his eyes.

Olivia's presence brought a conflicting mix of emotions for Art. On the surface, she appeared caring and understanding when in front of David, but behind closed doors, she treated Art with cruelty and aggression. Whenever Art tried to speak up or express his feelings, Olivia would dismiss him, brushing off his concerns as mere misunderstandings. Feeling defeated, Art had given up on trying to make himself heard.

David, with his typically expressionless face, managed to conjure a small smile whenever he spoke to his son. "Order whatever you want, Art."

Olivia attempted to initiate conversation, trying to engage with David. "So, how was the trip? Were the projects approved?"

David took a moment before responding, his attention momentarily drawn away. "Yes, the trip was fine. The projects are progressing, but there's still work to be done." He glanced at Olivia, his thoughts elsewhere.

Sensing an opportunity, Olivia brought up the topic of setting a date for their marriage. "You know, David, it's been quite some time since we got engaged. Maybe it's time we start thinking about setting a date for our wedding?"

Silence hung in the air as David avoided eye contact, his mind drifting back to the image of Charlotte from the airport. The memories and emotions stirred within him, intensifying his resentment and pain.

Meanwhile, Olivia's annoyance began to simmer beneath her smile. She had grown tired of the prolonged engagement, and the rumors circulating about their relationship status added to her frustration. She desired the validation and commitment that a wedding would bring.

As the silence continued, Art kept his gaze lowered, knowing better than to interject in the tense atmosphere. He had witnessed Olivia's true colors and the pain she caused him, but he felt powerless to change the situation.

Olivia, unable to contain her mounting irritation, decided to break the silence. "David, we've been engaged for so long. People are starting to wonder if we're ever going to move forward. It's important to make a decision."

David sighed, his mind torn between the memories of his failed marriage and the reality of his current circumstances. He knew he couldn't ignore the topic any longer. "Olivia, we'll discuss this matter in due time. There are other factors we need to consider."

Olivia's smile faltered for a moment, her frustration evident. "I just want to know where we stand, David. It's been long enough."

"Not now Olivia." David's voice was stern and dominating.

Olivia's annoyance grew with how David was treating her, but she composed herself, realizing that pushing the issue further would only create more tension. "You're right. Let's focus on the meal."

As the dinner continued, the atmosphere remained strained