Chapter 12. Family Matters

As Silas and I stood to greet his family, additional chairs and a table were promptly brought to accommodate everyone. Silas greeted his mother with a kiss on the cheeks and a salute to his father, a gesture that seemed both endearing and respectful. His ease with them contrasted with the nerves I was trying to conceal.

His mother wasted no time with pleasantries, immediately questioning our choice of venue. "My dear, why are you spending time in such a place? Is it even a five-star establishment?" Her words felt like a challenge.

As we settled back into our chairs, my stomach churned with apprehension. The man in the pilot's uniform spoke up. "Mom, ease up on Silas, will you? Not everyone can afford the luxury you're used to. This place probably suits his budget just fine," he remarked with a hint of sarcasm, delivering a veiled insult.

I glanced at Silas, waiting for him to retaliate, but he remained composed, as if accustomed to suc