The rehearsal dinner the night before had been particularly brutal.
Patricia’s family were genuine achievers. Her father had built a successful construction company. Her brother had just sold his tech startup for $50 million. Her mother was a federal judge.
They were warm, accomplished people who clearly expected Marcus’ family to be equally impressive.
“So, Emma,” Patricia’s brother, Jason, had asked during cocktails. “Marcus mentioned you work in food service. Are you planning to open your own restaurant?”
Before I could answer, Marcus jumped in.
“Oh, no. Emma is not the entrepreneur type. She works at a grocery store. It’s honest work, though.”
The slight pause in conversation was painful.
Jason recovered quickly. He was too polite to show his surprise, but I saw Patricia’s parents exchange a glance.
They were clearly wondering how a family that included doctors, lawyers, and successful business owners had produced someone whose biggest achievement was apparently avoiding unemployment.
“Food retail is fascinating,” I’d said simply. “The logistics alone are incredibly complex.”
“I’m sure,” Patricia’s father had replied kindly, then immediately changed the subject to Marcus’ law practice.
Later that evening, I’d overheard Patricia’s mother talking to my mother by the hotel bar.
“Patricia mentioned Emma might be a godmother to their children someday,” she’d said carefully.
“Oh, Emma would love that,” Mom had replied. “She’s wonderful with kids. Of course, she’s not in a position to be much of a financial influence, but she’s very loving.”
“Financial influence?”
“Well, you know, she’s still finding her way professionally. We help her out when we can. Family takes care of family, but your grandchildren will have plenty of successful role models without needing to worry about Emma’s situation.”
I’d left the bar after that and spent the rest of the evening in my room, reviewing acquisition reports and trying to remember why I’d thought attending this wedding was a good idea.
The morning of the ceremony brought fresh humiliations.
During hair and makeup, the other bridesmaids, Patricia’s sister and two college friends, were discussing their careers. One was a pediatric surgeon, another was launching her second startup, and the third was a partner at a consulting firm.
“And Emma works in grocery,” Patricia had explained when they asked about me. “She’s been doing that for years now.”