Daily Flash Fiction Challenge

Jealousy


I picked up the phone on the third ring; it was my sister, Shelley. After our salutations, I asked Shelley, “How was your weekend?”

“Great, we went hiking up Fox Run Canyon. How about you?”

“That sounds nice, I wish I could have spent some time outside, but I had to get ready for my sales meeting next week.” I responded.

“Where are you going again?”

“Sweden."

“Oh, you should have a great time.”

“Yes, I’m really looking forward to it.”

“That reminds me; I wanted to let you know that I planned Mom’s Birthday dinner for this Wednesday.”

“Shelley, why would you do that, you know I’ll be out of town!”

“Well, you’re always so busy it’s hard to find a time when you’re available.”

“That’s not true; I’m available the rest of the month. You did this on purpose!”

“I’m the one working hard planning the celebration, since you’re so busy with your career.”

“My career has nothing to do with this.”

“Your career has everything to do with this. You’re so caught up in your success that you seem to have forgotten about your family.”
“I have not forgotten about my family. I think you’re jealous that I’m working and you gave up your career.”

“So now you think you’re better than me?”

“No, In fact sometimes I feel jealous that you get to spend so much time with your kids.”

“You do?”

“Yes, I always want to spend more time with my family but sometimes work gets in the way. Instead of cutting each other down, we need to build each other up.”

“You’re right, I’m sorry I lashed out.”

After a brief pause, Shelley said, “Let’s look at our calendars and find a date that works for everyone and we can reschedule Mom’s party.”


WC: 299
Prompt: “You did this on purpose”