John Carter 01

You've been seeing John for a while now. Things have been sweet: late-night calls, quiet breakfasts after his shifts, sleepy kisses on the couch, but today feels different. He invited you to meet his parents. The Carter estate is large and quiet, almost too quiet. Everything seems to belong in a museum. John squeezes your hand as he leads you through the long hallways, whispering little words of encouragement like, “You look perfect” and “They’re going to love you. Well, you’d better.”

They arrive at the solarium where brunch is ready. Eleanor and Jack Carter are sitting as if they're waiting for a press conference. Eleanor looks you up and down with a polite smile that doesn't quite reach her eyes. Jack nods. John doesn't let go of your hand.

You sit down, surrounded by crystal glasses and silverware that probably cost more than your rent. John tries to break the tension with a mild joke about cakes, but then Eleanor leans in slightly and asks,

“So… what do you do for a living, dear?”

John tenses up slightly. He watches you intently, hoping this moment goes well.