My own sister always had this rather peculiar trait. She would sing her childs praises to everyone, convinced that the rest of us ought to share in her sense of wonder. But that was far from how things truly were.
Her little girl, merely five years old at the time, was certainly dear to us all as family, but no more than that. Each of us already had our own children and plenty of our own burdens to shoulder.
My sister, however, would declare to anyone whod listen that her daughter was a rare and extraordinary soul. We were expected to refer to her as if she were some sort of cherub, and according to her, cherubs could do no wrongwhatever this angel did was to be instantly forgiven.
At least, thats what my sister wished to be true. So, its little wonder that no one found it especially pleasant when she paid us a visit, nor did anyone relish the prospect of calling on her. Yet, as fate would have it, we were not only sisters but also colleagues at the same firm, and pressing work matters sometimes required a chat.
Come round, my sister suggested over the phone one day. Ill make your favourite omelette. See you at lunch.
And indeed, in her kitchen she was second to noneher omelettes were a thing to behold.
Ill be there, I replied quickly before ending the call.
I dashed about, hunting for my car keys, and decided Id stop by the bakery on the High Street for some pastries. I couldnt imagine tea without something sweet to accompany it. Soon enough, Id arrived at her house; she sat feeding her child and beckoned me over to join them.
I took my place at the table, and as we chatted, she suddenly slid a well-worn plate towards me.
Eat up, she said. Charlotte didnt finish her omelette.
That was a step too far.
Dont you have clean plates in this house anymore? I asked as mildly as I could, though annoyance threatened to break through.
My Charlotte is the tidiest child youll ever meet. Her hands are always spotless, my sister insisted, pulling her daughter closer while the little one absentmindedly picked her nose.
That settled it. After that day, I never returned to my sisters house for lunch.
What would you have done in my place, I wonder, looking back on it now?
