Chapter 7
A/N: I thought I'd call attention to a mistake I had made back in chapter 5. I had previously given fan names to the two Dragon Council members who never speak. I had named them Isla and Matías because I assumed that they had no names. However, I came to find out via the ADJL wiki and Jeff Goode's website that they do in fact have official names, Omina and Kukulkhan. You can imagine my embarrassment at learning that after using fanmade names for them in my story. So, I went back and edited chapter 5 so that their real names are used. Now I feel like my fic is a little more aligned with canon. But anyway, this chapter should be interesting. We get an appearance from Jake's obnoxious extended family members from the season 2 episode "Feeding Frenzy". Here's a great chance to explore more of what the family dynamics were like before Jake was born. Hang tight for this chapter.
Jonathan yawned as he made his way down the stairs, the morning sun casting long shadows across the hallway. He reached the bottom step and scratched at an itch on his thigh, his stomach rumbling in anticipation of breakfast. The delicious smell of pancakes wafted from the kitchen, drawing him in like a moth to a flame.
"Ooh, that smells delicious," he remarked, a grin spreading across his face. He bounced towards the kitchen, eager to indulge in his favorite morning treat.
He paused in the doorway, watching as Susan expertly flipped a pancake in the air, its golden-brown surface speckled with flecks of something that wasn't quite cinnamon.
"Mornin', hun," he greeted cheerfully.
Susan spun around, her face radiant with a smile. "Good morning, Jonathan," she replied. "How are you this morning?"
"Oh, I'm doin' well, thank ya'," Jonathan answered. "I came downstairs cuz I smelled some delicious pancakes cookin'. And ya' know I have a weakness for the ol' flapjacks." He rubbed his stomach, his mouth already watering.
Susan giggled as she piled a stack of freshly made pancakes onto a plate and placed it in front of him. "Well, you're in luck, because here you are."
Jonathan's eyes lit up, and he couldn't resist letting out a happy squeal. "Oh, goody!" he cried. "I am so hungry I could eat a horse this mornin'."
Susan laughed, her eyes twinkling with mischief as she placed another plate of pancakes on the table – this one distinctly different from Jonathan's.
"Meanwhile, this special plate of pancakes is all for me," she declared with a smirk.
Jonathan adjusted his glasses, peering at her breakfast with a puzzled expression. "My, those pancakes look a little... unusual," he remarked, noticing their dark color and the strange flecks dotting their surface.
"That's because these are no ordinary pancakes," Susan explained with a mischievous grin. "These are pancakes flavored not with cinnamon and blueberries, but with cumin and chili powder."
Jonathan's eyebrows shot up. "Cumin? And... chili powder?"
Susan nodded. "Mm-hmm," she confirmed. "And for the pièce de résistance..." She reached into a cupboard and pulled out a jar filled with fiery red ghost peppers. She carefully placed a few on top of her pancake stack. "Ghost peppers," she said with a grin.
Jonathan's jaw dropped. "Ghost peppers?" he sputtered, his eyes wide with disbelief. "Well, that's certainly... interestin'." He struggled to find the right words to describe this unusual culinary creation.
"Interesting it may be, but it's what our son wants," Susan declared, her hand resting protectively on her belly.
"Oh?" Jonathan tilted his head, a confused expression on his face.
"Yep," Susan confirmed. She rubbed her stomach, a sly grin spreading across her face. "This kid's been kicking up a storm all morning. And the only way to appease him is if I eat these pancakes."
Jonathan chuckled nervously. "Okay..." he said, his voice laced with a hint of worry. "But... are ya' sure it's a good idea to be eatin' all that spice at once? I mean, ya' might give yourself heartburn."
"Well, I need it!" Susan insisted, clutching her plate protectively. "This child is starving for them, and we don't want our baby to go hungry."
Jonathan nodded slowly, still unsure about this whole spicy pancake situation. "Okay..." he conceded. "I'm just sayin', all that spice might just turn our baby into a fire-breathin' dragon."
Susan paused, a thoughtful look crossing her face. She glanced down at her belly, a warmth spreading through her. You have no idea, honey, she thought to herself, a secret smile playing on her lips.
Susan's eyes glistened with a mix of determination and anticipation as she surveyed her spiced-up pancakes. The aroma of cumin and chili powder filled her senses, mingling with the sweet scent of maple syrup. She grabbed her fork and carefully lifted a bite to her mouth, the fluffy pancake steaming invitingly.
The moment the spicy concoction touched her tongue, a wave of heat washed over her taste buds. Her eyes widened in surprise, and she let out a muffled gasp. Whoa, she thought, her mind reeling from the unexpected intensity. That's... a lot of spice. She fanned her mouth with her hand, trying to cool down the inferno raging on her tongue.
Jonathan, who had just taken a bite of his own (much milder) pancakes, noticed Susan's reaction. "Are ya' okay, honey?" he asked, concern furrowing his brow.
Susan nodded, forcing a smile. "Yes, I love it," she said through gritted teeth, her voice slightly strained. "So good."
Jonathan raised a skeptical eyebrow, a smirk playing on his lips. "Uh-huh," he said, unconvinced. "I can tell how much you're enjoyin' those pancakes." He chuckled, taking another bite of his own breakfast.
"It's really good, I swear," Susan insisted, though her watering eyes and slightly panicked expression betrayed her true feelings. She glanced longingly at the sink, wishing she had a glass of water to extinguish the fire in her mouth.
"Hun, if they're causin' ya' so much pain, just stop eatin'," Jonathan suggested, his voice laced with concern.
Susan shook her head, her determination unwavering. "Can't do that," she mumbled, spearing another bite of pancake with her fork. "I have to... I have to satisfy the baby. He'll kick me until I eat it all."
Jonathan just smirked and rolled his eyes, a wave of fondness washing over him. That's just like Susan, he thought. Always so stubborn. He couldn't help but admire her dedication, even if it was directed towards a plate of ridiculously spicy pancakes.
As Susan took another bite of her pancakes, the phone's insistent ringing cut through the quiet morning. She paused, her eyebrows furrowing in annoyance. "I wonder who that is," she mumbled, her tongue still tingling from the spicy pancakes.
"I'll get it," Jonathan offered, quickly rising from his seat and heading towards the living room.
Susan stood up from her seat and grabbed a glass of water, taking a sip and relishing the way it soothed the lingering heat in her mouth. Wow, that was intense, she thought, fanning her mouth with her hand. I guess those ghost peppers weren't kidding around.
"Hey, Susan!" Jonathan called out from the living room.
"Yes?" Susan replied, setting down her glass.
Jonathan returned to the kitchen, phone in hand. "It's for you, honey," he said, a slightly apprehensive look on his face. "It's your cousin, Cathy."
Susan's stomach dropped. Oh, great, she thought, rolling her eyes internally. Just what I needed this morning. If there was anyone she would rather not talk to, it was Cathy. As far back as when they were kids, Susan never particularly got along with her cousin. She always found Cathy to be condescending and self-absorbed, always thinking she was above everyone and was entitled to special treatment. However, her recent marriage to a wealthy man had only amplified those traits.
Susan took the phone from Jonathan with a hesitant hand. "Hello?" she answered, trying to keep the annoyance out of her voice.
"Susan, darling! How are you?" Cathy's voice chirped through the receiver, its saccharine sweetness grating on Susan's nerves.
"Um... okay, I guess. Just enjoying a little breakfast this morning," Susan replied, her eyes meeting Jonathan's. He gave her a sympathetic smile and a subtle thumbs-up, a silent gesture of support.
"Oh, that's good," Cathy said. "Hope the pregnancy is still going okay for you."
"Yeah, it's okay," Susan confirmed. "It's been a bit challenging at times, but I'm doing great, and so is my baby boy." She smiled, her hand instinctively going to her belly.
"Oh, good, good. Great to know that you're taking good care of yourself," Cathy said, her voice laced with a subtle condescension. "You can't be too lackadaisical when it comes to pregnancy, you know. Especially when you're... well, you know..."
Susan's jaw tightened. Here it comes, she thought, bracing herself for a round of Cathy's thinly veiled insults and backhanded compliments.
"Listen, Susan," Cathy began, her voice taking on a business-like tone, "I called to let you know that the girls and I are planning a little baby shower for you this coming weekend."
"A baby shower?" Susan echoed, her eyebrow arching in surprise. The thought of a celebration with her family was both appealing and slightly terrifying.
"Yes, and it's going to be held at the La Petite de Sweet bakery near Times Square," Cathy continued, her voice laced with a hint of pride. "Hubby and I were able to pull a few strings and rent the place out for the party."
"Oh, that's neat," Susan replied, trying to sound enthusiastic despite the knot forming in her stomach.
"Yes, quite," Cathy agreed, her tone self-satisfied. "So, will you be able to attend?"
Susan hesitated, her fingers tightening around the phone. A baby shower... The idea of celebrating her pregnancy with her female relatives was tempting, but the memory of past family gatherings filled her with dread. She pictured her relatives, their faces a mixture of judgment and disapproval as they scrutinized her every move, their whispers echoing with thinly veiled insults about her choice to marry a human.
She remembered her disastrous wedding reception, the chaos of her elderly relatives failing to conceal their draconic nature from Jonathan, the awkward explanations and near-exposures. She had even resorted to body-slamming Jonathan into the wedding cake to prevent him from witnessing a particularly embarrassing magical mishap where her Aunt Mai had gotten the brilliant idea of gifting her a bunch of gnomes as a wedding present. The thought of going through a similar ordeal again, especially now that she was pregnant and more vulnerable, made her stomach churn.
"Susan? Are you still there?" Cathy's voice broke through her thoughts.
"Yes, I'm here," Susan replied, forcing a smile. "I'm just... thinking about it."
"Well, I would certainly hope that you choose to come," Cathy said, her voice dripping with a saccharine sweetness that set Susan's teeth on edge. "After all, I am the one who is funding this whole affair, and the guest of honor not showing up would simply be a waste of my money. And you wouldn't want to do something like that to your dear ol' cousin now, would you? Just a thought."
Susan's eye twitched. The guilt trip was as subtle as a bus crashing through the wall. She does this every time we talk, Susan snarled internally, clenching her fists. Does she think I'm an idiot?
"Well, a baby shower does sound like fun," Susan admitted through gritted teeth. "Perhaps it couldn't hurt if I went."
"Oh, excellent!" Cathy chirped, her voice oozing with self-satisfaction. "I'm so glad to know that you're going. Trust me, it will be an honor celebrating your new little miracle. The fact that you're giving birth to the first dragon born on American land, we just can't let that go uncelebrated now."
"Yeah..." Susan said, her voice flat. She glanced at Jonathan, who was watching her with a concerned expression, a wave of warmth washing over her at his silent support.
"This event is a women-only thing, right?" she asked, hoping for confirmation.
"Yes, of course," Cathy confirmed. "Just a chance for all us gals to get together while the menfolk go and play."
Susan breathed a sigh of relief. At least she wouldn't have to worry about repeating the wedding reception fiasco and clumsily trying to keep Jonathan from seeing her relatives' chaotic failures to hide their magical nature.
"Well, I'll see you this weekend, Susan dear," Cathy said, her voice taking on a warning tone. "Don't be late now, you hear?"
Susan rolled her eyes. "I promise not to be late," she said, barely containing her sarcasm.
"Good, good," Cathy replied, seemingly oblivious to Susan's tone. "Well, ta-ta, Susan."
"Bye," Susan said, and promptly hung up the phone, a surge of relief washing over her. She looked at Jonathan, a wry smile playing on her lips. "Well, that was... pleasant."
Jonathan chuckled, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. "You handled that like a pro," he said, kissing her forehead. "But seriously, if ya' don't wanna go, ya' don't have to. We can always celebrate with just the two of us."
Susan's heart warmed at his words. "Thanks, honey," she said, leaning into his embrace. "But I think I'll be okay."
Jonathan smiled, wrapping his arms around Susan and gently cradling her belly. "That's good, hun," he murmured, his voice filled with warmth. "At least your family is celebratin' our baby with ya'."
"Yeah," Susan said, a genuine smile spreading across her face. "Maybe this time things won't be so messy with them. Perhaps this will be an amazing event."
"That's the spirit, sugar dumplin'," Jonathan encouraged, his eyes twinkling. "Just celebrate the fact that we're bringin' a brand new life into the world, and he's gonna be raised in love." He rubbed Susan's belly, feeling the baby's energetic movements beneath his palm.
Susan's smile widened, her heart swelling with gratitude for Jonathan's unwavering support. "That's a lovely thought," she said, her voice soft with emotion. "That's the most important thing. I'll try to get through this party with that mindset, and maybe things will work out."
Jonathan nodded, hugging his wife tighter. Just then, Susan felt a series of strong kicks in her belly, and she gasped, her hand instinctively flying to her stomach.
"Oh my," she said, her voice laced with laughter. "Looks like little Jakey is getting impatient for the rest of those spicy pancakes." She winced playfully as she glanced at the plate of unfinished pancakes.
Jonathan chuckled, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Looks like he's quite the connoisseur for spicy foods, huh?"
"Seems like it," Susan agreed, a mischievous glint in her eyes. Or perhaps this is a dragon thing I'm not aware of, she thought, a thrill of excitement running through her.
She felt another wave of kicks, even stronger this time. "Alright, alright, Jakey! Hold your horses!" she laughed, gently rubbing her belly. "Mommy's on it."
She grabbed another glass of water and placed it beside her plate, anticipating the fiery onslaught of the remaining pancakes. Jonathan watched with amusement as she continued to devour her spicy breakfast, her face a mixture of determination and discomfort. She's gonna be an amazing mother, Jonathan thought. I just know it.
As Susan savored the last bite of her pancake, a feeling of contentment settled over her. She leaned back in her chair, her hand resting on her belly, feeling the gentle rhythm of Jake's movements. We're going to be amazing parents, she thought, a wave of warmth washing over her. I just know it.
Saturday afternoon arrived faster than anticipated, leaving Susan with a mix of excitement and trepidation. She stood in front of her bedroom mirror, carefully adjusting the baby blue blouse with white lilies that she had chosen for the occasion. The soft fabric felt cool against her skin, a much welcome feeling to balance out her anxiety.
"Good thing I picked out this cute maternity top," she murmured, smoothing out the wrinkles. It was the perfect balance of comfort and style, a subtle nod to her growing bump and the little life it held. And since she was having a boy, the blue color seemed fitting.
She gazed at her reflection, her eyes lingering on the gentle curve of her belly. A wave of love washed over her, mixed with a touch of apprehension. She couldn't help but worry about her family's reaction to her pregnancy, their judgmental whispers.
"I just hope Cathy or anyone else doesn't make any patronizing remarks," Susan muttered, her voice laced with a hint of apprehension. But then she let out a dry chuckle. "Who am I kidding? This is Cathy we're talking about. She's the queen of patronizing."
She sighed, her hand instinctively going to her belly. "At least you don't have to deal with her," she whispered to her unborn son. "Yet, anyway." A gentle thump against her palm reassured her. He was healthy, he was strong, and he was loved. That was all that mattered.
She took a deep breath, the scent of her lavender perfume filling her senses. She would face her family with confidence, with grace. She would celebrate this new life, this miracle growing within her, and she wouldn't let anyone's negativity dim her joy.
Susan stood outside the entrance of La Petite de Sweet bakery, its brightly painted sign a cheerful beacon against the gray backdrop of the city. It was a charming little building with a beige brick facade and flower boxes overflowing with colorful blooms. Over the door, a hand-lettered banner proclaimed: "Bakery Closed. Baby Shower of Susan Long in Progress." Baby blue balloons and streamers adorned the doorway, their festive colors a stark contrast to the knot of anxiety tightening in Susan's stomach.
The smell of freshly baked pastries wafted from the open windows, a tempting aroma that momentarily distracted her from her worries. She could hear the muffled sounds of laughter and chatter coming from inside, a mix of excitement and anticipation that both drew her in and made her want to turn and run.
Susan took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves. Just remember, this party is about celebrating Jakey, she reminded herself, her hand gently rubbing the curve of her belly. It's about welcoming him into the world, surrounded by love and support.
With a final, steadying breath, Susan steeled herself and walked up the steps towards the entrance, her hand reaching for the cool metal door handle and pushing open the door.
As Susan stepped into the bakery, the warmth of the air enveloped her like a comforting hug. The sweet scent of vanilla and sugar hung heavy in the air, mingling with the murmur of chatter and laughter. The main lobby was decorated with baby blue balloons and streamers, and a large banner with the words "Welcome, Baby Jake!" hung proudly above the refreshment table.
A gaggle of women, including some magical creatures, were gathered around the room. Susan's aunts, Mai and Chiu, sat at a small table, their animated conversation punctuated by Chiu's occasional sneezes and the faint flicker of her dragon form. A mermaid lounged in a large saltwater tank, her scales catching the light as she flicked her tail. A cyclops and a centaur chatted amiably, balancing plates of cupcakes and glasses of punch. A trio of sprites fluttered around the gift table, their iridescent wings leaving a trail of sparkling dust in their wake.
Good thing Jonathan isn't here to witness any of this, Susan thought to herself, a wry smile tugging at her lips. She couldn't imagine how he would react to this bizarre scene, but she was nonetheless grateful that the baby shower was a women-only event.
Cathy, perched on a chair beside Aunt Mai and Aunt Chiu, spotted Susan and jumped to her feet. "Ooh, look, ladies!" she chirped, her voice dripping with her usual saccharine sweetness. "It's the mom-to-be herself, Susan!"
All eyes turned towards Susan, some of their gazes a mixture of curiosity and thinly veiled judgment. Susan felt a familiar wave of unease wash over her, but she forced a smile and offered an awkward wave.
"Ooh, it's Susan!" Aunt Chiu exclaimed, her voice booming through the room.
"Yes," Aunt Mai added, her eyes narrowed in scrutiny. "She's looking... well-fed."
Susan's smile tightened. Here we go again, she thought, bracing herself for the inevitable barrage of backhanded compliments and thinly veiled insults.
"Hello, everyone," Susan greeted, awkwardly waving.
Cathy approached Susan, her designer handbag swinging from her arm. "Come in, come in," she said, taking Susan's hand and pulling her towards the refreshment table. "You're just in time for cake and treats."
Susan's eyes widened as she took in the sight of the lavish cake. It was a towering creation, frosted in a delicate shade of baby blue, with intricate icing decorations and a bold inscription: "Welcome Jacob Luke, America's First Dragon."
"Wow, that's quite a cake," Susan remarked, trying to keep the surprise out of her voice.
"Yes, it was a special order," Cathy said proudly. "I had to pull some strings to get it made." She gestured towards the cyclops, who was beaming with pride. "One of the talented ladies here whipped it up for us."
"I see," Susan said, a hint of amusement in her voice. "I guess you couldn't explain that inscription to a human baker."
Cathy chuckled. "Indeed. Well then," she said, cutting a generous slice of cake and handing it to Susan, "why not try a piece?"
Susan took the plate, her fingers brushing against Cathy's perfectly manicured hand. "Thank you, Cathy," she said politely. "It looks delicious."
She took a bite, savoring the sweet and fluffy cake. "Mmmm, it is good," she said between bites.
"Glad you like it, Susan," Cathy replied, her eyes gleaming with a smug satisfaction. "But don't have too much now. You're already quite round, and we wouldn't want you rolling away."
Susan's smile faltered, and a flicker of anger sparked in her eyes. Two minutes in, and she's already starting with the subtle insults, she thought, her jaw tightening. But she quickly composed herself, determined not to let Cathy ruin her day.
"Oh, don't worry," she said, her voice laced with a hint of sarcasm. "I don't intend to have a lot anyway. Can't have too much sugar in my system, after all."
"That's a good girl, Susan," Cathy said, her tone patronizing. "That's such a responsible motherly thing to do."
Susan's patience was already wearing thin, but she forced a smile and took another bite of cake, vowing to stay calm and focus on the positive. But she knew, with a growing sense of dread, that this baby shower was going to be a long and challenging event.
"Why don't we say hello to Mother and Aunt Chiu?" Cathy suggested, her voice dripping with forced cheerfulness as she steered Susan towards the table where her aunts were seated.
Aunt Mai and Aunt Chiu watched their approach with a mixture of curiosity and thinly veiled disapproval. Susan braced herself for the inevitable barrage of unsolicited advice and backhanded compliments. She couldn't stand the way they always treated her like a child, as if she were incapable of making her own decisions and knowing right from wrong.
"Mother, Aunt Chiu, look who it is," Cathy announced, gesturing towards Susan with a flourish.
"Hello, Susan," Mai greeted, her voice cool and appraising. She adjusted her pearl necklace, her lips pursed in a disapproving frown.
"Susan," Chiu echoed, her eyes flitting nervously between Susan and Cathy. She let out a loud sneeze, her dragon form flaring momentarily before she quickly regained control. "Oh, dear," she mumbled, dabbing at her nose with a lace handkerchief. "These allergies are acting up again."
Susan forced a smile, her hand instinctively going to her belly. "Hello, Aunt Mai, Aunt Chiu," she said politely. "It's nice to see you again." She sank into one of the plush velvet chairs, the soft fabric a welcome contrast to the tension in her shoulders. She leaned back, trying to relax, but the atmosphere felt thick with judgment and disapproval.
"So, Susan," Aunt Mai began, her voice sharp and inquisitive, "how are you feeling? Are you taking proper care of yourself? Eating enough nutritious foods? Getting plenty of rest?"
Susan's smile tightened. Here we go, she thought, bracing herself for the onslaught of questions and criticisms.
"I've been doing okay," Susan answered, trying to maintain a neutral tone despite the irritation prickling at her. "Much better than during the first trimester, in fact."
"That's good to know," Aunt Chiu said, her voice a gentle coo that did little to soothe Susan's ruffled feathers.
"The second trimester is generally considered to be the 'honeymoon period' of pregnancy," Aunt Mai added.
"It sure seems that way," Susan agreed. "I haven't felt sick to my stomach for months now, and I've had a lot more energy."
"Good, good," Aunt Mai said, nodding approvingly. "You'll need that energy for the challenges ahead. Raising a child is no easy feat, especially when you're... well, you know..." She trailed off, her eyes flickering with condescension.
Susan's jaw tightened. Here it comes, she thought. It was clear that she was being questioned about her ability to parent properly.
"Have you been craving anything?" Aunt Chiu asked, her voice a gentle distraction from her sister-in-law's pointed comment.
"Yes, I've been craving anything spicy since the second trimester started," Susan admitted, her thoughts drifting to the delicious, albeit fiery, pancakes she had devoured that previous morning. "I don't know if this is just a normal pregnancy thing or if it's specific to dragons."
"It would be the latter, dear," Aunt Mai replied with a chuckle, her tone a mix of condescension and amusement.
"It is?" Susan asked, her eyebrow arching in surprise.
"Oh, did no one tell you?" Aunt Mai's voice dripped with feigned concern. "In dragon pregnancies, the mother typically has cravings for spicy foods. It's all a part of helping to strengthen your baby's dragon fire."
"Oh," Susan said, a flicker of understanding crossing her face. "That's interesting. And I guess that makes sense." She remembered her father's explanation of the baby's dragon chi and the potential for unusual manifestations. Indeed, her cravings were more than just a simple pregnancy quirk.
"You really ought to have known that by now, dear," Aunt Mai chided, her tone sharp.
"Yes, it's a shame how you're not as in touch with your dragon heritage as you should be," Aunt Chiu added, her voice softer but no less judgmental. She let out a loud sneeze, her dragon form once again briefly flaring.
Susan's brow furrowed. "Excuse me?" she said.
"Well, Chiu, it's just what happens when you're human-locked," Aunt Mai explained, as if speaking to a child. "I myself am human-locked, as is Cathy, yet we're quite in tune with our dragon heritage." She adjusted her pearl necklace, her eyes gleaming with a smug superiority.
"I guess that's what happens when you marry a human," Aunt Chiu sighed, her voice laced with disapproval.
Susan's fists clenched, her knuckles turning white against the floral tablecloth. She averted her gaze. Just as I feared, she thought, her heart sinking. This isn't turning out so well. Every word, every glance, every gesture from her aunts seemed to be laced with judgment and condemnation. Just who do they think they are? she fumed internally.
Susan took a deep breath, trying to regain her composure. Just keep your cool, she thought, breathing in and out. She glanced down at her belly, her angry expression softening. Remember why you're here.
She forced a smile, her lips trembling slightly, and turned towards Cathy, who was watching the exchange with a smug grin plastered across her face. Susan's blood boiled at the sight. She knew exactly what Cathy was thinking, the smug satisfaction she took in Susan's perceived misfortune.
"So, Susan," Cathy chirped, her voice laced in her usual feigned sweetness, "are you excited about becoming a mother?"
"In fact, I am," Susan replied, cradling her belly. "Every day, I look forward to when I can hold my little Jakey in my arms."
"Oh, how nice, Susan," Cathy said, her tone dripping with insincerity. "I'm sure you'll be a fantastic mother."
"You really think so?" Susan asked, her voice laced with a hint of challenge.
"Absolutely, darling," Cathy purred, her eyes gleaming with faux adoration. "Your child is coming into a dragon family, after all. No doubt you'll teach him to embrace his heritage."
"I don't know if he will," Susan said, her gaze hardening. "But I certainly hope that he does."
"Hopefully," Cathy agreed, her smile faltering slightly. "Unless, of course, the non-magical husband has something to say about that."
Susan's jaw tightened. "Excuse me?" she asked, her voice dangerously low.
"Oh, Susan, you and I both know that it's going to be difficult raising a dragon child around that human husband of yours," Cathy said, her voice laced with a condescending pity. "I mean, how do you plan to explain anything to him when your son starts showing signs of his true nature?"
Susan's fingers tightened around the velvet of her seat, her knuckles turning white. "I-I'm not sure about that yet," she admitted, her voice faltering. She hadn't considered that aspect, and a wave of anxiety washed over her.
"You best start planning for that, dear," Aunt Mai chimed in, her voice sharp and disapproving. "It's not like you can just hide a dragon's powers forever."
"Yes, I don't know how your dear hubby will be able to handle having a son who's a magical reptile," Aunt Chiu added.
Susan took a deep breath, trying to maintain her composure. "I'll figure it out," she said, her voice firm. "Jonathan and I will find a way. We always do."
"We'll see about that," Aunt Mai muttered under her breath, her eyes narrowed in skepticism.
Susan's blood boiled at their dismissive attitude. She wanted to lash out, to defend her choices, to remind them that she was a capable and independent woman, regardless of what they thought. But she held her tongue, knowing that a confrontation wouldn't solve anything. She would prove them wrong, not with words, but with actions. She would raise her son to be a strong and responsible dragon, a guardian who would protect the world and make them proud.
The cyclops and centaur approached Susan, their eyes wide with a mixture of curiosity and awe. The cyclops, her single eye gleaming with an otherworldly light.
"You are the daughter of Lao Shi, the Chinese Dragon, right?" the cyclops asked, her voice a deep rumble that echoed through the room.
Susan nodded, a warmth spreading through her at the recognition of her father's legacy. "Yes, that's right," she answered.
"And within your womb lies the first dragon to be born on American soil," the centaur added, her voice gentle and melodic. Her hooves clicked softly against the polished floor as she shifted her weight, her equine body a stark contrast to Susan's human figure.
"This child is destined to be the salvation for our community," the cyclops declared, her voice filled with hope.
Susan's heart swelled with pride. "That's right," she said, her hand protectively cradling her belly. "Being a dragon, my son may just be the guardian this country's magical community is looking for."
"A first ever for this nation," Aunt Chiu remarked, her eyes sparkling with excitement. She let out a loud sneeze, her dragon form briefly flaring. "Oh, poo," she mumbled, wiping her nose. "These allergies..."
"Not so fast, Susan," Cathy interrupted, her voice sharp and dismissive. "While your baby is indeed the first dragon born in this country, there's no guarantee that he'll be appointed the country's official dragon."
Susan frowned, her excitement momentarily dampened. "What do you mean?" she asked, her brow furrowing in confusion.
"The Dragon Council doesn't just select a dragon based on seniority, nor do they pick out of a hat," Cathy explained, her tone condescending. "It's determined by the character of the child's parents. So, in other words, if either you or your husband prove to be poor examples for your child, your child has no chance of being a World Dragon."
Susan's stomach tightened. She hadn't considered that. What if I'm not a good enough mother? she worried silently. What if Jonathan's human upbringing disqualifies Jake from being the American Dragon?
"Like I said, Chiu," Aunt Mai chimed in, her voice laced with disapproval, "poor Susan is terribly out of touch with her dragon heritage."
Aunt Chiu giggled, her eyes gleaming with a malicious amusement. Susan glared at them, her fingers digging into the velvet armrests of her chair.
"Even if I don't know what it's like to have dragon powers," she retorted, her voice firm, "that doesn't mean that I can't be a good example for my son."
"Maybe you will," Cathy conceded, her tone skeptical, "but what about that non-magical husband of yours? He's blissfully unaware of the existence of all things magical. How do you expect him to be able to set a good example for your son?"
"Jonathan doesn't have to be a dragon or anything magical to teach Jake good character," Susan argued, her voice rising in defense of her husband. "He can set a good example for Jake by simply being a good father, that's all."
"Perhaps," Cathy said, her voice dripping with doubt. "But it's still all up to the Dragon Council to decide."
Susan's heart sank. She knew that Cathy was right. The Dragon Council had the final say in who would become the American Dragon, and their standards were high. She glanced at the mermaid, who was watching the exchange with a concerned expression. The cyclops and centaur had also fallen silent, their eyes fixed on Susan with a mixture of sympathy and anticipation.
"Miss Susan," the centaur spoke up, her voice gentle and melodic, "if it is okay, may we feel your belly?"
The cyclops nodded eagerly, her single eye gleaming with curiosity. "We would like to feel the movements of your baby," she added. "To see if he's strong and healthy."
Susan smiled, a warmth spreading through her at their genuine interest. "Of course you can, ladies," she said. "Just make sure to be gentle. He's still quite small and delicate, you know."
The cyclops and centaur grinned, their eyes sparkling with excitement. They carefully placed their hands on Susan's belly, the contrast between the cyclops's rough, calloused hand and the centaur's smooth, delicate touch creating a strange harmony. They held their breath, anticipation hanging heavy in the air.
Within seconds, a series of powerful thumps erupted beneath their palms, sending a jolt of surprise through their bodies. Their faces lit up with wonder as they felt the baby's energetic movements.
"Oh... he's moving!" the cyclops exclaimed, her voice filled with awe.
"Yes," the centaur agreed, her eyes widening in amazement. "This one will be strong and powerful. A true guardian."
Susan beamed with pride, cradling her belly. "Indeed, my little boy is already a little livewire," she said warmly, soaking in their praise.
Even Aunt Mai and Aunt Chiu couldn't help but be impressed by the display. "It seems that your baby is growing strong," Aunt Mai remarked, a hint of admiration in her voice. "Perhaps he will be appointed guardian then."
Susan's smile widened. For once, her aunt's words weren't laced with any malice or condescension. It was a small victory, but a significant one. It gave her a glimmer of hope that maybe, just maybe, her family would come to accept her choices and embrace her son for who he was, human father and all.
Cathy watched the exchange between Susan and the magical creatures, her lips twisting into a sour frown. The attention Susan was receiving, the admiration in their eyes, the way they spoke about her baby as if he were already the American Dragon – it all grated on Cathy's nerves.
It's not fair, Cathy thought, her jealousy simmering beneath the surface. How did Susan manage to conceive a dragon child so easily...? And with a human! She glanced down at and rubbed her own flat stomach, a pang of longing echoing through her. Meanwhile, I've been trying to get pregnant for years and have had no such luck. It just doesn't add up.
Cathy sighed, rubbing her temples in frustration. Maybe there's something wrong with me, she thought, a wave of self-doubt washing over her. Maybe I'm not good enough to be a mother, to carry on the dragon legacy. She shook her head, pushing those negative thoughts aside. She wouldn't let Susan's good fortune overshadow her own happiness. She would find a way to conceive, to have a dragon child of her own, a child who would surpass Jake in power and prestige. Perhaps even be the one to be appointed the first American Dragon.
Cathy's gaze swept across the room, settling on a table laden with colorful party games. A mischievous glint sparked in her eyes. Perhaps these games will reveal Susan's true ignorance, she mused, a cruel smile playing on her lips. Perhaps they will expose her lack of connection to our heritage, her unworthiness to be the mother of the American Dragon.
"Alright, ladies, it's time for our first game!" Cathy announced, her voice ringing with enthusiasm. She gestured towards a table laden with colorful objects and baby-themed decorations.
"Ooh, what do you have planned?" the cyclops asked, her single eye gleaming with curiosity. "I love party games!" She clapped excitedly.
"Well, for starters," Cathy said, approaching the table. She picked up a baby doll, its plastic skin cool and smooth to the touch. "We have the Diaper Changing Relay Race. The goal is, of course, to change your baby doll's diaper before the timer runs out."
Susan nodded, her lips curving into an amused smile. "Okay, sounds like a simple but fun game," she said, picturing a chaotic scene of women fumbling with tiny diapers and giggling uncontrollably.
"But there's a twist," Cathy added, a mischievous glint in her eyes. She held up a blindfold, its silky fabric soft against her fingers. "You must do it while blindfolded."
A collective gasp rippled through the room. The guests exchanged surprised glances, their faces a mixture of intrigue and apprehension.
"Ah, quite a challenge," Aunt Mai remarked, her voice laced with a hint of skepticism.
Susan chuckled, her competitive spirit ignited. "Should be fun," she said, her gaze fixed on the baby doll and the blindfold. I'm not going to let a little piece of cloth defeat me, she thought, her determination growing.
Cathy grinned, sensing the challenge in Susan's eyes. This should be interesting, she mused, a plan forming in her mind. Perhaps this game will reveal Susan's true inexperience, her lack of maternal instincts.
Cathy cleared her throat and addressed the group. "Alright, ladies, gather around. Let the games begin!"
The women gathered around the table, their laughter echoing through the bakery as they donned their blindfolds. Susan, her fingers tracing the soft fabric of the blindfold, felt a surge of determination. I'm going to win this, she thought, her competitive spirit ignited. I'm going to prove to them that I can handle anything, even with a blindfold on.
"Ready! Begin!" Cathy called out, pressing the button on the timer. A loud beeping filled the air, signaling the start of the challenge.
The women erupted into a frenzy of activity, their hands fumbling blindly for the baby dolls and diapers. Susan, however, took a deep breath and focused her senses. She remembered where her doll was positioned, the soft weight of its plastic body, the crinkly texture of its diaper. She reached out, her fingers brushing against the cool, smooth surface of the table, and quickly located the doll and the fresh diaper.
With practiced movements, she unfastened the old diaper, the smell of baby powder wafting into the air. She carefully maneuvered the doll's tiny limbs, her fingers surprisingly adept at navigating the unfamiliar task. She secured the new diaper, her heart pounding with a mix of excitement and determination.
Cathy, watching from the sidelines, couldn't believe her eyes. Susan was already miles ahead of the other contestants. How is she doing that? she thought, her jaw tightening with envy. She's supposed to be the clueless one, the one who needs our guidance.
"Almost there..." Susan muttered to herself, her fingers fumbling with the final fastener. She could feel the other women struggling, their frustrated grunts and giggles filling the air. A smile spread across her face. I'm going to win this, she thought, a surge of confidence coursing through her.
"And... time!" Cathy called out, the timer beeping insistently to signal the end of the game.
The women let out a collective sigh of relief, their hands dropping to their sides as they removed their blindfolds. The room buzzed with chatter and laughter as they compared their handiwork, some proudly displaying their neatly diapered dolls, others sheepishly hiding their less successful attempts.
Susan grinned as she examined her own doll, its diaper perfectly fastened, its plastic skin smooth and unblemished. She glanced at the other dolls, some with diapers askew, others with limbs poking out at odd angles. A wave of satisfaction washed over her. I did it, she thought, her confidence soaring. I actually won!
Cathy, her clipboard in hand, approached each contestant, her expression carefully neutral as she evaluated their work. When she reached Susan, her eyebrows shot up in surprise, and a flicker of annoyance crossed her face. The diaper was flawlessly secured, not a single wrinkle or gap in sight. Rats! she thought, clenching her jaw. She's better than I expected.
"Well," Cathy announced, forcing a smile, "after careful deliberation, the point for this game goes to Susan!"
The women erupted in cheers and applause, their voices echoing through the bakery. Susan blushed, a warmth spreading through her chest at their praise. She couldn't help but feel a surge of pride, not just for winning the game, but for proving her capabilities, even in the face of her family's doubts.
"Good job, Susan!" the cyclops boomed, her single eye twinkling with amusement.
"You did great!" the centaur chimed in, her hooves clicking softly against the polished floor.
"Congratulations," the mermaid added, her voice a melodic whisper.
Cathy, her smile tightening, clenched her fists beneath the table. She quickly regained her composure, reminding herself to maintain a facade of good sportsmanship.
"Nice, nice, very nice," she said through gritted teeth. "Susan, you clearly have some excellent diaper-changing skills. What's your secret?"
"Well," Susan replied, her voice laced with a hint of smugness, "I just calmed my mind down and remembered where everything was positioned. Plus," she added, a mischievous glint in her eyes, "I've had some experience with changing diapers before. I once babysat a neighbor's child when I was eighteen."
Cathy's smile faltered. So, she's not as clueless as I thought, she realized, a wave of frustration washing over her. But I won't let her win the next game, she vowed silently. I'll make sure it's something she can't possibly succeed at.
"I see," she said, her voice carefully neutral. "Well, that's certainly interesting. But will you be as good at the next game?"
"I hope so," Susan replied, her confidence unwavering.
Cathy's eyes narrowed. We'll see about that, she thought, a plan already forming in her mind.
The next game was baby bottle bowling, a seemingly simple activity that quickly devolved into a hilarious spectacle. Aunt Chiu's attempts to throw the ball were thwarted by her sneezing fits, her dragon form momentarily disrupting the game before she quickly shifted back to her human form with a sheepish grin. The cyclops, her depth perception hampered by her single eye, consistently missed the bottles, her throws sending the ball careening off the walls and furniture. The centaur struggled to maintain her balance as she leaned down to roll the ball, her hooves slipping on the polished floor. Aunt Mai, with a surprisingly weak throwing arm, launched her ball with such force that it nearly knocked over a framed picture of a grumpy-looking gnome.
Susan, watching the chaos unfold, couldn't help but giggle. Who knew bowling with baby bottles could be so challenging? she thought, shaking her head in amusement.
But as her turn approached, a shadow fell over the festivities. Cathy, her eyes gleaming with mischief, discreetly pulled a bottle of glue from her purse. While Susan's back was turned, Cathy squirted generous dollops of the sticky substance into the holes of the bowling ball.
Let's see how she handles this, Cathy thought, a smug grin spreading across her face. Perhaps this will teach her a lesson about making me look foolish.
Susan stepped up to the bowling lane, her confidence momentarily shaken by the unexpected challenge. As she reached for the ball, her fingers met with a sticky, gooey mess.
"What the—?!" she exclaimed, her eyes widening in surprise. She tried to pull her fingers free, but the glue held them fast. "Oh, no!" she cried, her frustration mounting.
The cyclops and centaur rushed to her side, their faces etched with concern.
"It looks like your fingers are glued in there," the centaur observed, her voice gentle.
"What?!" Susan exclaimed, her cheeks flushing with a mix of embarrassment and anger. "How did that happen?"
Cathy, feigning innocence, approached with a look of faux concern. "Oh, no, Susan!" she cried, her voice dripping with fake sympathy. "This is terrible! I don't know how glue got into the ball. I'm so sorry."
Susan glared at her, suspicion brewing in her eyes. This is a little too convenient, she thought, her gaze narrowing.
Just then, the trio of sprites fluttered over, their iridescent wings shimmering in the light. "Allow us, Miss Susan," one of them chirped, her voice like the tinkling of bells.
The sprites gathered around Susan's hand, their tiny fingers glowing with a soft, magical light. They sprinkled a shimmering dust over the glue, and with a gentle pop, Susan's fingers were free.
"Thank you so much, ladies," Susan said, her voice filled with gratitude.
"No problem, Miss Susan," one of the sprites replied. "It's only fair that you play without any... unforeseen disadvantages." She winked, her eyes twinkling with a knowing glint.
Cathy, her face burning with anger, silently cursed the sprites' intervention. She squeezed a plastic cup she was holding, its flimsy material crinkling under the pressure.
With her fingers unstuck, Susan stepped up, her determination renewed. She took a deep breath, focused her energy, and rolled the ball with a smooth, controlled motion. It wasn't a strike, but it knocked down several of the bottles, earning her a respectable score.
Not bad, she thought, a triumphant smile spreading across her face. Not bad at all.
The third game was a simple one of Guess the Baby, where baby pictures of the party's guests were displayed, and everyone had to guess who was who. Cathy, still seething from her failed sabotage attempts during the diaper and bowling games, saw this as another opportunity to humiliate Susan. She had discreetly replaced one of Susan's baby pictures with a particularly embarrassing one – a photo of a naked baby Susan, covered in pureed peas, grinning mischievously at the camera.
This should put her in her place, Cathy thought, a smug grin spreading across her face.
The game progressed as planned. Baby pictures of Aunt Mai, Aunt Chiu, the centaur, the cyclops, and even Cathy herself were displayed, eliciting laughter and fond reminiscences from the guests.
"Next picture," Cathy announced, her voice laced with a barely concealed glee. She reached for Susan's photo, her fingers tracing the outline of the embarrassing image. Get ready for a dose of reality, dear cousin, she thought, her eyes gleaming with malicious intent.
She pressed the button on the projector, and the image of baby Susan, naked and covered in green goo, flashed onto the screen. The room fell silent. The guests, their mouths agape, stared at the picture in a mixture of shock and amusement. Susan's jaw dropped, her cheeks burning with humiliation. It can't be! That's the picture from my first birthday party! she thought, her mind reeling. How did Cathy even get her hands on that?!
"Where did you get that picture?!" Susan demanded, her voice trembling with anger.
All eyes turned towards Susan, their expressions a mix of surprise and concern. Cathy, caught off guard, froze, her smug grin faltering.
"Oh... yes... about that..." she stammered, her mind racing for a plausible excuse.
The other guests, sensing the tension, shifted uncomfortably in their seats. The mermaid gasped, her hand flying to her mouth. "Why would you choose such an unflattering picture of Susan?" she questioned, her voice laced with disapproval.
"Yeah, that's pretty low, even for you, Cathy," the cyclops added, her single eye narrowed in suspicion.
Cathy's face flushed, and beads of sweat formed on her forehead. She couldn't think of a believable explanation, and the weight of the guests' judgment pressed down on her. I've been caught, she realized, her heart sinking. And now I'm the one who looks like a fool.
"Ladies... come on now," Cathy pleaded, her voice faltering as she tried to regain control of the situation. "It was just meant to be a little harmless fun."
"Harmless fun?!" Susan's voice cracked with indignation. She pushed herself away from the table, her chair scraping against the floor, and stormed towards Cathy. She stood directly in front of her cousin, her eyes blazing with fury. "What exactly is so harmless about publicly humiliating me in front of everyone?! Would you like it if one of your embarrassing childhood photos was plastered up there for all to see?!"
Cathy flinched, her smug smile vanishing as she met Susan's angry gaze. "Well... I..." she stammered, her mind scrambling for a believable excuse.
"She has a point, Cathy," the cyclops interjected, her voice booming through the room. "If it had been one of your embarrassing photos up there, you'd be kicking and screaming and demanding that it be taken down. So, what makes it okay if it's Susan's picture?"
Several of the other guests nodded in agreement, their expressions a mixture of disapproval and disappointment. Cathy, feeling the weight of their judgment, shifted uncomfortably, her cheeks burning with shame.
"How about we move on to something else, ladies?" Aunt Mai suggested, her voice attempting to soothe the tension. "Susan, you still haven't opened your presents yet."
"Oh yes, Susan," Cathy chimed in, eager to deflect attention from her own wrongdoing. "You still have presents to open. So why don't we get to that?"
"Now wait a minute," Susan interrupted, her voice firm. "You didn't answer the question, Cathy. Why did you choose that picture?"
Cathy's eyes darted around the room, avoiding Susan's gaze. "Let's just forget about that," she said dismissively, gesturing towards the gift table. "You just get to opening up your presents. You'll love them."
Susan's fists clenched, her anger simmering beneath the surface. She wasn't going to let Cathy get away with this. "No, Cathy," she said, her voice rising. "I deserve an explanation. You deliberately chose that picture to embarrass me, and I want to know why."
Cathy, ignoring Susan's demand for an explanation, simply pushed her towards the gift table.
"Hey!" Susan cried.
"Just forget about it and open up your presents," Cathy said dismissively.
Susan, realizing that Cathy wasn't going to answer her question, sighed and took a seat beside the table. A mountain of gifts, wrapped in colorful paper and tied with ribbons, awaited her. She couldn't help but feel a flicker of excitement, despite the lingering tension still hanging in the air.
"Alright, Susan," Cathy said, picking up a large, rectangular present wrapped in shimmering silver paper. "Why don't we start with this one? It's from Aunt Chiu." She gestured towards Aunt Chiu, who beamed and gave Susan a thumbs-up.
Susan, her curiosity piqued, carefully unwrapped the gift. It was a box of pull-up diapers, their soft, absorbent material promising comfort for her little one. "Diapers, nice," she said, a smile tugging at her lips.
"Yes, dear, your little one will need those, after all," Aunt Chiu said, her voice filled with a gentle warmth.
"Yes, of course," Susan agreed. "Thank you, Aunt Chiu."
"Alright, on to the next present," Cathy announced, handing Susan a smaller, cylindrical package wrapped in bright yellow paper.
Susan eagerly tore off the wrapping, revealing a set of colorful pacifiers. "Ooh, these are cute," she remarked, picturing Jake's tiny mouth happily sucking on one of the soft, rubbery nipples.
The next gift was a fuzzy, red onesie with a friendly dragon embroidered on the front. Susan's heart melted at the sight. He's going to look so adorable in this, she thought, imagining Jake snuggled in the soft fabric.
Gift after gift, Susan's anger gradually dissipated, replaced by a sense of gratitude and anticipation. There were soft, plush toys, colorful stacking blocks, a play xylophone, and even a set of dragon-themed storybooks. Each gift was carefully chosen, thoughtfully wrapped, and filled with the promise of joy and wonder for her baby boy.
As she unwrapped a teddy bear that sang surprisingly accurate renditions of popular children's songs such as "Itsy Bitsy Spider" and "Baa Baa Black Sheep", Susan couldn't help but smile. Despite their flaws and their sometimes-judgmental attitudes, her family did care. They were excited about the arrival of her child, and they wanted to welcome him into the world with love and support. And that, she realized, was all that truly mattered.
"Alright, we're down to just one gift left," Cathy announced, her voice dripping with a smug satisfaction. "And it's the best gift so far, from yours truly. You know what they say, we've saved the best for last." She beamed, her eyes gleaming with a malicious glint.
Susan, her curiosity piqued, reached for the gift. It was a small, rectangular box, wrapped in plain white paper and tied with a garish red bow. She couldn't imagine what it could be, but after the delightful surprises of the previous gifts, she had high hopes.
"Well, go ahead, open it," Cathy urged, her voice laced with impatience.
"Alright, alright," Susan replied, carefully untying the ribbon and peeling back the paper. Her heart pounded with anticipation as the contents of the box were revealed.
Her breath hitched, and her hands froze. Inside the box lay a small, plastic kit with a syringe and a collection of vials. The words "Who's Your Daddy?" were printed in bold letters across the top, accompanied by a cartoon image of a baby with a questioning expression.
"What in the world is this?!" Susan demanded, her voice sharp with disbelief. She looked up at Cathy, her eyes narrowed in suspicion.
The other guests gasped, their faces a mixture of shock and disapproval. The cyclops and centaur exchanged uneasy glances, their hands instinctively going to their weapons. Even Aunt Mai and Aunt Chiu seemed momentarily taken aback, their usual amusement at family drama replaced by a flicker of concern.
Cathy, unfazed by the negative reaction, smirked. "Why, it's an at-home paternity test, of course," she replied, as if the answer were obvious.
Susan's jaw dropped. "And what exactly is my baby supposed to do with this?" she asked, her voice laced with incredulity.
"Oh, it's not for the baby," Cathy said, her tone condescending. "It's for your dear husband, sweetie."
Susan's eyes widened in realization, and a wave of anger washed over her. "What are you suggesting?!" she hissed, her voice dangerously low.
A hushed silence fell over the room, the tension so thick it was almost palpable. Aunt Mai and Aunt Chiu, however, exchanged a sly grin, their eyes gleaming with a perverse delight at the unfolding drama.
"I'm just... curious," Cathy said, feigning innocence. "I mean, a dragon fathered by an ordinary human? It's... unconventional, to say the least. One can't help but wonder if there might be another explanation." She paused, letting her words hang in the air.
Susan's blood boiled. "How dare you!" she shouted, her voice cracking with rage. "I would never do such a thing! Jonathan IS the father of my baby, and I love him with all my heart!"
Tears of anger and humiliation welled up in Susan's eyes, blurring her vision. She couldn't believe that Cathy would accuse her of such a thing, especially in front of all her relatives and friends. It was a betrayal, a cruel and calculated attempt to humiliate her and undermine her happiness.
"You know what, I'm starting to see why you threw this party for me!" Susan shouted, her voice trembling with rage. "This was all a big plot to humiliate and embarrass me! I should've known that!"
She turned away from Cathy, her eyes scanning the faces of the other guests. "The glue in the bowling game, the unflattering baby picture, and now this!" She gestured towards the paternity test, her voice thick with disgust. "You've crossed the line, Cathy. I've had it!"
She stomped towards the entrance, her footsteps echoing on the polished floor. "I'm leaving!" she declared, her voice ringing with finality.
"Susan!" Cathy shrieked, her face contorted in anger. "Don't you dare walk out that door!"
"Too late!" Susan spat back, her hand already on the doorknob. "You can take this party and shove it where the Sun doesn't shine!"
With that, she flung open the door, the cool air rushing in like a welcome reprieve from the stifling atmosphere of the bakery. She slammed the door behind her, the sound echoing like a thunderclap, leaving a stunned silence in its wake.
Cathy stood frozen, her mouth agape, her carefully constructed facade of composure crumbling. How dare she?! she fumed internally. After all the effort I put into this party, after all the money I spent... She glared at the other guests, her eyes blazing with indignation.
The other guests, still reeling from Susan's outburst, exchanged nervous glances. Aunt Mai and Aunt Chiu, however, seemed unfazed by the drama. They sipped their tea, their eyes twinkling with amusement. "This is much more entertaining than those silly games," Aunt Mai remarked, a sly smile playing on her lips. Aunt Chiu nodded in agreement.
Meanwhile, the cyclops and centaur, unnoticed by the others, slipped away from the main gathering and headed towards a quiet corner of the bakery. They exchanged a knowing look, their faces etched with concern.
Susan fled the bakery, her footsteps echoing on the pavement as she stomped blindly down the street. Tears streamed down her face, blurring her vision and mixing with the lingering taste of frosting and betrayal. She reached the bus stop and collapsed onto the cold, damp bench, her body shaking with sobs. The city's symphony of noise – the honking cars, the distant sirens, the chatter of passersby – faded into a dull roar as her own grief consumed her.
"Of all the low-down dirty things that Cathy has done to me all these years..." she choked out, her voice barely a whisper. She had endured countless insults, backhanded compliments, and thinly veiled judgments from her family, but this... this was a new low. To accuse her of infidelity, to question the paternity of her child, it was a betrayal that cut deep.
Susan buried her face in her hands, her tears soaking through her fingers. All she wanted was to disappear, to escape the judgmental eyes and hurtful words of her family. She longed for the comfort of Jonathan's arms, his gentle voice, his unwavering love.
Suddenly, a flutter of movement rippled through her belly. It was as if Jake was sensing her distress, reaching out to offer a silent message of support.
"Jake?" Susan whispered, her hand going to her stomach. She felt another kick, stronger this time, a reassuring thump against her palm. "Oh, my sweet boy," she murmured, her voice thick with emotion. "I'm so sorry you had to witness that. I promise you, I won't let them treat you the way they treated me. You're going to grow up in a loving home, surrounded by people who love you very much."
She closed her eyes, picturing Jake's tiny face, his delicate features, his heart beating in rhythm with her own. A surge of protectiveness washed over her, a fierce determination to shield him from the negativity and prejudice of her family.
"I'll be the best mother I can be," she vowed, her voice gaining strength. "I'll teach you kindness, compassion, and the importance of staying true to yourself, no matter what others might say."
She felt another round of kicks, and a smile touched her lips. "That's my boy, Jakey," she whispered. "We'll face this world... together."
Just then, a bus rumbled to a stop in front of her, its doors hissing open like a welcoming embrace. Susan looked up, a glimmer of hope returning to her eyes. It was time to go home, to the warmth and safety of Jonathan's love, to the promise of a brighter future.