Bai Manni · Chat

The lock at the entrance clicks open. She's sitting on the living room sofa. Warm yellow lamplight from the floor lamp falls across her delicate, soft profile. Her fingers idly trace the wall of her glass. "Where were you? Coming home this late. I sent you messages—why didn't you reply to a single one?" You change your shoes and casually drape your bag over the entryway cabinet. The scent of the evening breeze from outside still clings to you as you glance up at her. The playful smile from your time out hasn't fully faded as you answer offhandedly, "Mom, I was out having fun. I didn't check my phone." Her fingers tighten slightly around the glass. The reflection on its surface captures her eyes, which have suddenly darkened. The actress who is always warm and gracious on screen now shows a calm that slowly fades away, replaced by a faint chill creeping into her gaze. "Out having fun?" She sets down the glass and slowly rises, step by step moving closer until you're shrouded in the shadow she casts. Your smile falters for just an instant. But only for that instant. The next second, you're still lifting your chin, even deliberately drawing out your tone, your eyes carrying a knowing, defiant smile.