"Dan I can't believe you think that after all we've been through we can just up and be a family again," the petite blonde sat on one of the stools that surrounded the island in their marble kitchen. A place that used to be filled with the aroma of homecooked meals and a happy couple sharing the stove, was now replaced with an empty feeling of what once was.

"I'm trying aren't I? Not that I can say the same for you."

"Don't pull that crap on me. You're lucky I'm staying with you and trying to work out whatever is left of our marriage."

"Don't be so cynical."

Deb shook her head as she sipped her mineral water. She was already dressed for the evening, in her black silk evening gown that hugged her petite curves. She didn't want to fuss too much with her hair since her dress was already a handful, so she kept it straight down. She didn't even want to be there but their family had a name to uphold and as country club members it was their duty to entertain.

"Where's Nathan?" Dan asked as he fixed his printed tie that perfectly matched his beige dress shirt.

"He's up in his room. He told me to call him as soon as the guest arrives."

Dan nodded, "Well that time would be about now, his car is pulling into the driveway."

Deb was about to call Nathan's name but hesitated when she saw her son making his way down. He had seen the lights from his room and retreated downstairs to avoid hearing his father's call. He was wearing a blue dress shirt that wasn't buttoned to the top because his white Jordan tee peaked out from underneath. He folded the sleeves up to his elbows and decided not to wear a tie even though his father requested it. He walked over to his mother who linked arms with him.

She knew he didn't want to be there. Heck she didn't even want to be there, but she was proud of her son for making the effort, "It'll be over before you know it sweetie," she gripped his hand.

Nathan managed a half smile as he gripped her hand in return.

Dan opened the door for his guest introducing him to his lovely wife and son. The visitor was a man from the country club that Dan frequently golfed with. Dan led him into the living room where they had a couple of drinks then retreated to the diningroom where the dinner awaited.

"Deborah this veal is amazing," the visitor retorted.

He was like any other coutry club man. A rich fellow who valued the American dream and tried to live it to the best of his abilities.

"So Nathan you're dad tells me you're quite the athlete."

Nathan gulped down what he was chewing, "I guess so."

"You play baketball am I right?"

"Correct."

"I have a lot of ties to sports scholarships for several universities. Maybe I can watch you one time and see how good you are. I'll invite some of my friends to check you out."

"That's okay I don't need any favours."

Dan glared at Nathan.

"You know how teenage boys are like with their testosterones. Baketball season has already started, they're first game is next week. You should come Rob."

"I'll make sure to keep that day clear."

"You know he got the ball genes from me," Dan with his pride had to bring up his past glory, "better than my son actually."

"Really?" The man questioned excitedly.

"My son is still an amateur so he still has a lot to learn. With this season being the last season before they get picked for scholarships I'm going to make sure I push him right," he stared at Nathan, "We're going to start our workouts in the morning son."

Nathan kept a straight face, but deep inside he wanted to choke the living daylights out of his father as well as his retarded guest. it was times like these when he wished he was still emancipated and living on his own. Even though he was struggling, at least he had the satisfaction of knowing that Dan couldn't control him. Nathan thought maybe after his fatal drug complication his father would seize his pressure on him but it seems he didn't even notice. He was burning up with anger and Deb could see it. She gave her son an apologetic look, assuring him it would be over soon, but soon wasn't good enough for him. He wanted to leave now.

He couldn't take the two men talking any longer. They were gawking at his game and picking apart his flaws. It was as if he was having a bad nightmare and all he could do was sit and watch. Their laugh was nauseating and he wanted the evening to end.

Deb couldn't take anymore. She hated the look on her son's face as Dan and the other man criticized her baby boy. She had to intervene, "Umm Nathan will you help me bring the dishes into the kitchen?"

Nathan nodded following her suit, carrying the dishes and placing them onto the counter.

"Listen sweetie. Thank you for trying and keeping your composure, but I think we both know how bad this sucks."

"Big time," Nathan wiped his hands on the dish towel.

"Go get some fresh air honey," Deb put her hand on Nathan's arm.

"Are you sure?" Nathan looked at his mom unsure about her decision.

"I'm sure. You don't need to be punished with a whole night of Dan and his preppy friend."

Nathan smiled at his mom and kissed her on the forehead before leaving through the back door. He knew he would get hell from Dan when he returned but at that moment it was better than sitting through dinner with him and his friend.