The suburban neighborhood of Chicago was wrapped in autumn twilight. Caroline Foster picked up the mail from her doorstep as she returned home from the hospital. Among the letters, an invitation printed on expensive paper caught her eye. It was from her sister Vanessa, the younger one of the two. Caroline had often been compared to her sister. This had been happening since childhood.
Caroline was serious and responsible, raised to meet her parents’ expectations. On the other hand, Vanessa, five years younger, was bright, active, and full of confidence. Their parents often told Caroline, you should learn from Vanessa.
I’m home, Caroline called out, and seven-year-old Aidan came running from the hallway. Mom! Today I drew a dinosaur at school. The teacher said mine was the best.
Caroline smiled as she stroked her son’s head. That’s wonderful. Will you show me? From the kitchen, she could see ten-year-old Emma doing her homework, and her husband Jason had just returned from work, loosening his tie while making coffee.
A perfect family portrait was right before her eyes. Caroline was proud of the home she had built during 15 years of marriage. Any interesting mail? Jason asked.
Caroline picked up the invitation. It’s from Vanessa. Probably.
She opened the envelope and was momentarily speechless. She’s engaged. To Richard Grant.
The developer. Jason asked, looking somewhat surprised. He’s a big shot in the industry, isn’t he? Caroline nodded.
Richard Grant was a successful real estate developer, well known in local business circles. She continued reading the invitation. The wedding is in three months.
It looks like our whole family is invited. That night, after the children were in bed, Caroline was looking at the invitation in their bedroom. Vanessa always seemed to be one step ahead.
Graduating top of her class from law school, working at a prestigious law firm. Marrying a successful businessman. Jason came out of the shower and noticed her expression.
What are you thinking about? Just. Vanessa. Everything always works out for her.
Caroline, Jason sat beside her. You have a wonderful life. A good job, lovely children, and me, he winked at her.
Caroline smiled. I know. But? But what? Nothing, she said.
I’m just tired. The next morning, Caroline called Vanessa. Congratulations on your engagement.
Thank you. Vanessa’s voice was filled with excitement. I can’t believe it.
He’s perfect. You’ll help with the wedding preparations, right? We’re sisters after all. Caroline smiled.
Of course. Just tell me what you need. Wonderful.
Lunch tomorrow. I want to tell you all the details. Caroline checked her work schedule.
That sounds good. I’m looking forward to it. After hanging up, Caroline felt mixed emotions.
She was genuinely happy for her sister, but at the same time, she was struck by a strange feeling. She reflected on her own marriage. Fifteen years ago, she and Jason had married for love.
The first few years were passionate, but after the children were born, their life had settled into a routine. Nothing was particularly wrong, but the thrill had faded. At lunch the next day, Vanessa was radiant.
She shared every detail from how she met Richard to their engagement, and Caroline listened attentively. Caroline, I’ve always wanted to be like you, Vanessa suddenly said. Always your parents’ pride.