The Day I Kissed An Older Man

Most times, Rita felt scrutinized like an item placed on display at the center of the hall. Uncomfortable though she was, she knew that sacrifices had to be made. After all, her family needed her to keep up appearances, which she was okay with doing. She knew how important it was to maintain relationships with her elders since they had all seen her grow up.

Rita's mother had brought her to banquets before she had even reached the age of ten, and that was where she was introduced to all those aunties there. It was important that she mingle with those familiar faces, as they would be the ones who would be expected to look out for her children.

"It's been too long, Aunt Gina! You look younger than the last time I saw you!" Rita greeted warmly with a genuine smile.

Gina turned with a smile and pulled Rita in for a closer look. "Do I? Oh, Rita, you're becoming more beautiful as you grow older. You're starting to look like your mother. And you seem to have picked up the art of sweet-talking. Are you trying to work your charm on me?"

Rita feigned surprise and widened her eyes. "Of course not! I'm a reporter, and reporters never tell lies!"

crowd chuckled at the exchange. "How's that

affectionately. "Let me know if you ever get tired of that job. I'll have

very happy with where I am right now, so don't worry. It's been so long since I last saw you, and I missed you a lot too. Mom still has some wine,

of wine. Besides, your mother's gifts are for you

understood that these gifts were entrusted to

through so

short of saying that out loud. After all, Karen was the Russells' current lawful wife She married him in her 30s and even brought along