I parked my 10-year-old Subaru next to my daughter’s gleaming Porsche, already knowing exactly how this family reunion would go.
Pinerest Lodge was a stunning piece of property sitting on 40 acres of pristine woodland, with a crystal-clear lake reflecting the afternoon sun.
I grabbed my worn canvas duffel bag from the passenger seat, taking a deep breath of the mountain air.
“Look who finally made it,” my daughter Khloe called out, her voice carrying across the busy valet area.
She stood next to her husband, Derek, both dressed in designer clothes that practically screamed their price tags.
I walked over, offering a warm smile despite the greeting.
“Traffic was a bit heavy coming up the mountain.”
Chloe eyed my faded jeans and practical walking shoes, shaking her head.
“I’m honestly surprised that old car made it up the hill. Mom, you really should have let Derek send a luxury car service. It’s embarrassing.”
“The car runs perfectly fine,” I replied, adjusting the strap on my shoulder.
Derek checked his heavy gold watch, sighing loudly.
“Well, let’s get inside. Chloe and I have a very busy weekend planned. We’re celebrating my promotion, after all.”
My daughter looped her arm through his, leaning in with a satisfied smirk.
“Exactly. This weekend is about enjoying the finer things. I told the front desk to put you in one of the standard rooms in the back building. Mom, I know this resort is way above your status, and I didn’t want you feeling overwhelmed by the luxury suites.”
I didn’t argue. I didn’t cry or complain about how she spoke to me.
Over the past 5 years since my husband passed, Khloe had grown increasingly arrogant, constantly treating me like a fragile, poor old woman who needed her charity.
I simply nodded, keeping my thoughts to myself.
“Lead the way,” I offered calmly.
She turned on her heel, her designer shoes clicking sharply against the stone pathway.