Chapter 3

3 For the next few days, Jessica was either icy towards me or made snide remarks under her breath while watching TV. Things like, "Some people have no shame, living in someone else's house like they own the place. Think they’re some kind of princess, but everyone secretly can’t stand them." I ignored her, figuring John and Mary would sort it out. My new job was demanding. I worked late every night. One evening, I got home earlier than usual, but it was still dark. Everyone was asleep. I crept upstairs, wanting to rest, but the moment I lay down, I heard a shriek. I bolted upright, flipping on the light. Jessica, in her pajamas, was lying in my bed, staring at me in terror. John and Mary rushed in. "What happened?" John asked. My heart pounding, I said, "Jessica? What are you doing in my bed?" Her face hardened. "This is my house. I can sleep wherever I want." I frowned. Mary pulled me aside. "Sarah, I forgot to tell you. Jessica moved into your room." "When?" "This afternoon. She said she wanted to sunbathe in front of the window." This room had been specially designed for me by my mother. It had a huge bay window that bathed the room in sunlight. In winter, it was the warmest room in the house. I felt a surge of anger. They’d moved my things without even asking. Mary saw my displeasure and softened her tone. "I'm sorry, Sarah. We should have asked. But Jessica's pregnant, and she’s got terrible morning sickness. She said being in the sun makes her feel better." I had friends who were pregnant. I knew hormones could cause strange cravings and behaviors. John, looking angry, said, “What is this? Everyone gets pregnant! It’s no excuse. Get her out of Sarah’s room! This is ridiculous!” “No, it’s okay, Uncle John,” I said quickly, not wanting them to fight. “I’ll sleep somewhere else. It’s fine. Jessica needs the room.” John looked conflicted. “But it’s not fair to you, Sarah.” I forced a smile. “We’re family. It's not a big deal. Where did you put my things?” Mary said, “In the small room at the end of the hall.” That was the smallest room on the floor, with only one small window and no sunlight. It was originally intended for the housekeeper. Going from the best room to the worst stung, but I let it go for John’s sake.