I have an adorable younger sister, Lily. We grew up side by side. Though we squabbled occasionally, we were family. Until that day, because of my moment of thoughtlessness...
The Remote Control Wars
Growing up, the TV remote was the most coveted object in our house. Both Lily and I craved it. Once, utterly absorbed in cartoons, she suddenly darted over. Her tiny hand shot out with startling speed and precision, snatching it away. "Change the channel!" she demanded, "My show's starting!" I wasn't yielding. I lunged to reclaim it. We tumbled together onto the sofa, locked in a grapple, the springs groaning in protest. Accusations flew. "I had it first!" "Liar! It was mine!"
The Potato Chip War
Sometimes the battlefield was snacks. Mom bought a bag of chips, explicitly meant to be divided equally. I tore it open with exaggerated rustling, hoping to taunt her. Predictably, she edged closer, eyes fixed longingly on the bag. "Want some?" I shook it. Chips rattled inside. She nodded, reaching out. Just as her fingers grazed it, I yanked the bag back and swiftly scooped a huge handful into my own mouth, crunch-crunching loudly. She froze, her face flushing crimson with rage, then shrieked and lunged for the bag. A loud rrriiiip followed as the bag split in two, scattering chips everywhere.
Mom's Embrace
Bedtime was another nightly contest. We both fought for Mom's presence. I'd cling to one of her arms, Lily fiercely gripped the other, like two stubborn koalas. We glared at each other, neither budging. "Mom sleeps with me tonight!" I declared. "No! Mommy's mine!" Lily's voice pierced the air. Mom, tugged between us, eventually sighed and gathered us both under her large quilt. Even nestled beneath it, we jabbed elbows, each convinced the other was monopolizing her affection.
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