Apparently I've married into the Mafia. As it turns out "the family" has changed our weekend lunch from Sunday to Saturday. There was no notice. There was no checking of availability. We were told.
For once I actually had concrete plans on Saturday. We had another lunch with someone who is not in the same bloodline as Mr. Rant. Oh my, I just realized that I am writing had. We HAD another lunch. See, the transfer is complete. I am now a member of this mob family.
But it's the family. All other things must be put aside. And there's always an excuse. Mr. Rant pointed out that this was going to be our first time eating cozido together as a family since the Grandmother died in December.
I know I'm supposed to be all sentimental about it but we have eaten a lot of meals together since her death. What's next, this is the first time we've gotten together for grilled cheese and beer since... No deal people! No excuses! No manipulating me with your skillful doe eyes and fast Portuguese. This girl has plans! We have plans with my friends! Not only that, but those plans include a lunch that is going to be of the Mexican persuasion made by someone of the Mexican persuasion.
And when I mentioned that we have plans I got the most awesome Mafia response humanly possible. Translated it was:
"Oh well. Saturday is better for the family."
In that one line it basically says this:
You will be at the lunch and you will be happy about it. There will be considerable shit talk and hard feelings if you aren't. Your Mother will be upset! We are your elders and will be dying in the next 30 to 40 years. You must spend as much time with us as humanly possible. By the way, we own you.
I have debated standing up to this. I am actually considering saying no (although it should be noted that I already asked my friend if we can switch days). But to say no would but such an overwhelming task. For starters, I have to take on Mr. Rant. That one isn't too hard except he gets quite territorial and moody when it comes to family stuff. Lots of egg shells.
2nd would be my Mother-in-law followed thirdly by the aunts. This also means that it will be mentioned at the following 2 lunches that we did not attend the cozido, that it was a shame, and how disappointed Vava was.
4th, there's Vava. She is the sister of the late Grandmother who is visiting Rio for a couple of weeks.
Bitterly I wonder if this is something I should even try to do. I mean, we're talking about 1 skinny white girl against an entire culture. "The Family" would not be pleased.
What would you do?
