High stakes
The stakes were really high, and if I didn’t go to these events, it may cause us to become estranged or, worse, confirm Sandra’s negative image of me. Missing these dinners might strengthen Sandra’s hold on our connection and jeopardize my relationship with my fiancé. She couldn’t win that easily, in my opinion. I had to find a method to maintain my position in spite of the stifling environment and scathing remarks.

High Stakes
Growingly personal jabs
Sandra’s jabs became more personal as the appetizers arrived and went. Her tone was sarcastic as she muttered, “Your job must be so exhausting.” Any illusion of tranquility I had attempted to preserve was ripped away by her comments. The appetizers were a blur, with a hint of irony in every mouthful. Every minute that went by made her jabs sharper and more targeted at the areas that hurt the most. However, I couldn’t afford to become agitated.

Growingly Personal Jabs