"He's in the wrong. An apology is in order!"
George's intention was to instruct his children about accountability, not to single me out.
Nevertheless, Maria's favoritism stung.
In their eyes, I was apparently worth less than a strand of hair from Quincy or Hank.
"Go on, say sorry to your sister."
I understood George's reluctance to let me go. They had, after all, publicly announced my return.
What would people think if their biological daughter left again?
"I've done nothing wrong!"
Hank stood his ground, refusing to apologize or show any deference to me.
This mirrored his behavior in my previous life. No matter my actions, he assumed I was insincere.
I recalled his fondness for a particular singer. Even when I went out of my way to secure concert tickets for him, his opinion of me remained unchanged.
I had no desire to relive those days of futile attempts to win approval.