“I always know when you’re looking at me.”

Feeling out of sorts, she searched for and located Roth, who stood before the side table, laden with traditional Thanksgiving dishes. She made her way over to him, wondering how he handled knowing the worst traits and habits of everyone around him. 

She stopped by his side and resisted the urge to lean into him. He was so sure of himself, so calm despite the dangerous environment he worked in. His security measures made sense. So did his need to be armed. He wasn’t taking anything for granted, not even her family. He knew they could turn on him at any moment. 

She took in the table, which was beautifully set with foliage and candles, before she looked up. “Roth?”

“It looks like the commercials.”

“What does?”

He gestured to the artfully displayed food. “I’ve seen this in movies and commercials, but never in real life.”

She was utterly lost. “What are you talking about?”

He finally took his eyes from the spread and looked at her. “I’ve never had Thanksgiving dinner. This is exactly how I imagined it would be.”

Her chest locked. 

“Min.”

She turned and saw that at some point everyone had taken their seats. Roth took her hand and led her to the table. Lyle sat at the head of the table, with Bailey occupying the opposite side. She took her usual spot beside her niece, which made Roth take the seat beside Rami. As Lyle said a brief prayer filled with heartfelt gratitude for his daughter and that they could gather for the occasion, she peeked at Roth and was surprised to see his eyes were closed and his head bent. When he squeezed her hand, she jumped. How did he…?

“Aunty, your eyes should be closed,” Bailey whispered loudly. 

Everyone laughed as Lyle finished his prayer. Her sisters gave her a mock scolding, which made the kids cackle in delight. When everyone migrated to the food to make their plates, she turned to Roth with narrowed eyes. 

“How did you know?”

“I always know when you’re looking at me.”

**This is a raw draft of Bitter Confessions. Please do not share or distribute.