“That’s a convenient narrative,” I replied, keeping my voice steady. “But it doesn’t explain why you attended her presentations but skipped mine. Why you paid for her MCAT Prep course but told me to use free online resources. Why you covered her living expenses during medical school but suggested I take out additional loans for mine.”
“We only have so much money, Audrey,” my father protested. “We had to make choices.”
“Yes, you did,” I agreed. “And consistently, you chose Jessica.”
My Mother’s Eyes filled with with tears. “We love you both equally,” she insisted.
“Maybe you do,” I conceded, “but you haven’t treated us equally—and watches and belated recognition won’t change that.”
The phone rang—Dr Fleming calling to discuss my upcoming move to Baltimore. I answered it gratefully, turning away from my parents’ stunned faces.
“Yes, I’m available to discuss the housing options,” I said into the phone. “In fact, your timing is perfect.”
Three weeks later, I stood in my empty apartment, the last box is packed and ready for the moving company. Jessica sat on the window sill, watching me tape up a final container of books.