“And I still can,” Jessica said. “But I won’t do it by letting Mom and Dad manipulate the situation or by letting you miss out on opportunities. That’s not who I want to be.”
Across the room, I saw my parents finally rising from their table, moving hesitantly in our Direction. Their path was slow, interrupted by guests who wanted to talk about me—a novel experience that was clearly unsettling for them.
“Here they come,” Jessica murmured. “Ready for this?”
“Not really,” I admitted.
“Dr Fleming certainly had some impressive things to say about you,” my father said when they finally reached us, his tone carefully calibrated to sound proud while masking his confusion. “The Patterson Fellowship—that’s quite an honor. Why didn’t you tell us you were even being considered for something so prestigious?” my mother asked, a hint of accusation in her voice.
“Would it have mattered?” I asked quietly. “You’ve made it clear where your support and interest lie.”
My parents exchanged uncomfortable glances.
“That’s not fair, Audrey,” my father began.
“Wek always supported both of you differently,” my mother interjected quickly. “We supported you both differently because you had different needs.”
Jessica shook her head. “Mom, Dad, letun not do this tonight. But we are going to have a real conversation about this soon. All of us.” She gave me a meaningful look. “No more pretending.”
Dr Fleming appeared at my elbow, saving me from having to respond. “Audrey, the dean would like a word—something about featuring your fellowship in the alumni magazine.” She smiled at my parents, her expression pleasant but her eyes Steely. “You must be incredibly proud to have raised two such accomplished daughters—though I imagine it’s particularly gratifying to see Audrey’s hard work recognized after all she’s overcome.”
The emphasis on overcome was subtle but unmistakable. My parents had the grace to look embarrassed.
“Well,” my mother said weakly, “we’ve always known Audrey was special, too.”
Too little, too late.