“It’s good for you. Visibility. I’m basically marketing your restaurant.”
Marketing.
That’s what she called it.
Using my business… without paying.
Then she tapped her glass.
The room quieted.
“I simply adore this restaurant.”
Guests smiled.
“She’s worked very hard, and we’re all so proud.”
A few laughs.
“I practically own the place at this point.”
More laughter.
“And my daughter-in-law…”
She raised her glass slightly.
“She’s just a little servant here.”
For a second, people laughed.
Some didn’t.
But no one stopped her.
Something inside me went still.
Not angry.
Not embarrassed.
Done.
I turned and walked out.
Maya followed me into the hallway.
