Mrs. York's comment was essentially a polite way of throwing shade: it wasn't that you're unattractive, just that you weren't as pretty as Quinn.
That certainly ruffled Mrs. Harrington and Nydia's feathers. Which woman does not care about her looks? It was almost as if Mrs. York had pointed directly at them and said, "You're just plain!"
But what was more important was that Mrs. Harrington realized, Mrs. York was unabashedly sheltering Quintessa behind her, referring to her as "our Quinn," treating her as a family member! Mrs. Harrington's gaze at Quintessa became even more complicated.
Quintessa was stunned by Mrs. York's staunch defense and was at a loss for words. She hadn't expected Mrs. York to protect her so decisively, essentially tearing apart years of acquaintance for her. Why was she being so kind?
Quintessa was also amazed at Mrs. York's quick wit.
A wave of warmth flushed through Quintessa, gently warming her entire body.
She wasn't sure if Mrs. York's words were just offhand or heartfelt, but she wanted to say thank you. It had been years since anyone treated her like family.
Tyrone, seated to Quintessa's left, wrapped his arm around her shoulder, displaying a possessive stance as if to say "this is my woman." He chuckled, "Susan, that's just how my mom is. She can't hide her feelings, says whatever is on her mind. She bears no ill will toward anyone. Don't take it to heart."
What Tyrone was thinking was: My mom really nailed it today, turning on the charm! That comeback was just too perfect. I've got to double her allowance this month.
Mrs. York looked puzzled, "Oh. Did I say something wrong?"
Tyrone shook his head, "Mom, you're just too straightforward. Telling it like it is can sound harsh, but you and Mrs. Harrington have been friends for years. Everyone knows what kind of person you are; they won't hold it against you."
The mother-son duo played off each other so well, leaving no space for Quintessa to add anything.
Quintessa, licking the corner of her lips, wondered if there was a place for her in this squabble, feeling sidelined for the first time.
Tyrone's explanation only darkened Nydia's expression; he was implying that: My mom's just telling the truth-you are, unfortunately, plain.
Mrs. Harrington struggled to maintain her smile, thankfully, someone's entrance broke the tension at that moment.
"Alex, there you are! Come sit down. I thought since Ty was dining with us ladies, it might be uncomfortable, so I invited Alex too. They're good friends."
The moment Alexander walked in, his gaze fixed on Quintessa, especially noticing Tyrone's arm over her shoulder. Quintessa was sitting between Tyrone and Mrs. Harrington-it looked like a family scene, painfully stinging Alexander's eyes as if scorched by fire.
Mrs. York, noticing Alexander frozen in place, joked, "Why the daze, Alex? Don't recognize Ty anymore? Come on, sit down. Now that we're all here, let's get the food out. Everyone must be starving." Quintessa's expression remained unchanged at the sight of Alexander, but Tyrone's hand on her shoulder squeezed slightly. Mrs. York also glanced at her son with a look that said: "Your rival's here, step up your game!"
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