“My ears are ringing, I’ve gained three pounds in one sitting, and I’m pretty sure Rosa thinks I’m joined at the hip with a phantom boyfriend,” she laughed. “So... not ‘well,’ then?”
Elena looked through the doorway. Her father was snoring in his armchair. Her mother and Aunt Rosa were finally laughing together over a box of almond polvorones. The house was messy, loud, and exhausting.
"Navidades, ¿bien o en familia?" Elena muttered to herself, echoing the old joke. Navidades, Вїbien o en familia?
“No,” Elena smiled, drying her hands. “Definitely in family.” If you'd like to adjust this story, let me know: Should the tone be or more sentimental ? Should I focus more on the humor of the family conflict?
She looked at her phone. Clara had posted another photo from Bali—a lonely sunset. “My ears are ringing, I’ve gained three pounds
“Elena, pass the salt,” Aunt Rosa said, leaning in. “And tell me, is that 'friend' from your photos just a friend, or should I buy a new dress for a wedding?”
Elena sighed, scrolling through her Instagram feed. Her friend Clara was currently in Bali, posting photos of white sand and hibiscus cocktails. The caption read: Christmas in paradise. Her father was snoring in his armchair
The train station was a sea of red tinsel and stressed parents. Elena sat on her suitcase, clutching a peppermint mocha like a shield. Her phone buzzed with a text from her brother: “Brace yourself. Mom bought the 15-pound turkey. Aunt Rosa is already asking why you’re still single.”