Chapter 9 - True Family Found
A year after the infamous birthday party, life looked entirely different.
Jennifer reached out to me five months into her new job. Her tone was subdued, stripped of her former arrogance. She asked if we could meet for coffee. I agreed.
We met at a small café near my office. Jennifer sat across from me, wearing plain business attire, looking tired but surprisingly grounded.
"I didn't come here to ask for money or for Brad’s career back," Jennifer said quietly, stirring her coffee. "Brad and I are in marriage counseling now, and he’s working as an associate at a smaller firm. We're paying off our debts slowly."
"I’m glad to hear that, Jen," I said sincerely.
"I wanted to apologize," she said, looking down at her hands. "I spent my whole life being told I was special, and I built my entire ego on being better than you. I was vicious to you, Maya. I was jealous of your talent, your marriage, and your independence, even when I pretended I was above you. And what I did to Lily at her party... it was cruel. I was a terrible sister and a terrible aunt."
I looked at my sister, seeing for the first time an adult who was willing to confront her own flaws.
"Thank you, Jennifer," I replied softly. "I appreciate you saying that. It doesn't mean everything goes back to the way it was, but it’s a start."
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"I don't expect things to be automatic," Jennifer said, a small, genuine smile appearing on her face. "I just hope that maybe one day Ethan and Lily can play together like cousins should."
"Step by step, Jen," I said, smiling back gently. "Step by step."
