Hanna took a careful breath. “Right now, I’m pretty passionate about design, so that’s what I want to pursue.”
Mrs. Callahan’s lips pressed into a thin line. “Passion can be wonderful, but it’s hardly a stable foundation for a future, don’t you think?”
“Mom, I think Hanna’s doing exactly what she should—pursuing something she’s great at,” Finn interjected, his voice a bit sharper than usual.
“Oh, darling, I’m only suggesting that a solid plan is crucial,” she replied, dismissing his protest with a wave of her hand. “You wouldn’t want to be in a position, Hanna, where you’re relying on… uncertain opportunities, would you?”
Hanna’s stomach twisted, but she kept her voice even. “No, Mrs. Callahan, of course not.”
Mr. Callahan, who had been quietly observing the exchange, leaned forward. “Finn, do you remember when we talked about ambition—how important it is to have a clear direction in life?”
Finn nodded, but he cast a wary glance at Hanna. “Yes, Dad, I remember.”
Mr. Callahan turned his gaze on Hanna, his eyes cool. “Ambition is what sets us apart. I think you’d agree, Hanna, that setting the highest standards for oneself is essential?”
She met his gaze, her heart pounding. “Yes, sir. I agree with that.”
Mr. Callahan tilted his head slightly, an almost approving look crossing his face. “Good to hear. It’s just… well, let’s say we believe Finn deserves someone equally driven, equally prepared for what’s ahead.”
“Dad,” Finn said, his voice low but warning, “we’ve been over this.”
“We’re only saying what’s best for you, Finn,” Mrs. Callahan replied, casting an almost sympathetic look in Hanna’s direction. “And Hanna, I do hope you don’t take offense. It’s simply that… we have certain expectations for Finn’s future.”
Finn looked down, frustration clear on his face, and Hanna felt the sting of Mrs. Callahan’s words deep in her chest. But she sat a bit straighter, forcing herself to meet Mrs. Callahan’s gaze head-on.
“I understand,” Hanna said, her voice calm but strong. “You want the best for Finn, and so do I.”
A flicker of surprise crossed Mrs. Callahan’s face, though she quickly masked it. “Well, we’ll see, won’t we?” she murmured.
The rest of the evening was spent in strained small talk, with Mrs. Callahan’s pointed glances and Mr. Callahan’s loaded questions filling every silence. Hanna responded politely, never letting her smile falter, though each comment felt like another brick in the wall they seemed determined to build between her and Finn.
As the dinner continued, Hanna felt exhausted but strangely resolute. She wasn’t going to let their judgment break her—not tonight. She tightened her grip on Finn’s hand under the table, glancing up at him as he gave her a small, supportive smile, his own patience visibly fraying.
Mrs. Callahan folded her napkin carefully, giving Hanna one last, calculating look. “It’s been… enlightening, Hanna. I suppose we’ll be seeing you again soon.”
“Yes,” Hanna replied, meeting her gaze. “I’m sure you will.”