Sisters in the Cornfield

Still hurt from the fact that he entrusted Caitriona with his diagnosis before her, had anger rearing its ugly head once again, and her body stiffened as she backed away from Caitriona. She needed to pace needed to walk out the anger bubbling up inside her, not hurl biting words at her best friend. But her resolve failed, and suddenly she couldn’t help herself from lashing out. “That’s the point he told YOU, not me!” Calm and collected was Caitriona’s style, but Jennie was pushing her limits like a willful child. And as she crooked her head to the side to assess Jennie’s state of mind, she decided it was time Jennie heard some undiluted truth. So turning back around, Caitriona calmly and deliberately sat back down at the table before she began. “I understand you are angry and hurt, but I am not your father. I know you want answers, and I don’t blame you one bit, but taking swings at me won’t help. What I hear is you questioning your father’s judgment, by confiding in me and not you first.” Jennie crossed her arms in front of her body and took on a defiant stance. Caitriona sized her up and thought, “So that’s the way you want to play it, Luv. Well, bring it on.” and continued, “Before we get in the weeds here, Jennie, let me ask you something. Do you believe I would ever disclose someone's confidence? Yours or anyone else’s? Your expectation of me, as your friend, is that I would not share your innermost feelings and thoughts with others? Isn't that so?” Jennie was taken back by her blunt challenge, and it had her off balance. Feeling trapped and guilty by the question, she responded curtly, “Well, no. But we’re talking about something I had a right to know.” Caitriona continued, “This is true, but how can you disparage me for keeping his confidence if you expect me to keep yours? Whether you or I think he was wrong for keeping this from you, it was his truth to tell, not mine. He was your father, Luv. I am only a close family friend, not your parent, not even your blood family. This quarrel you are having inside is with him, not me.” The truth of her words shamed Jennie. Caitriona didn’t deserve her rage. Then Jennie did the only thing she could do; she surrendered; it was time to make amends. “I am so sorry. You’re right. I’m misdirecting my anger at you, and it’s inexcusable.” Caitriona waved it off. “I wouldn’t use that word exactly. I think it’s a bit harsh. I’d say your words were more misguided than inexcusable. Don’t forget you are only human. Mistakes happen, Luv, but that said, I appreciate your contrition.” Jennie walked over to Caitriona and gave her a heartfelt hug, one that lasted a bit too long for her comfort but knew Caitriona would appreciate the duration. “Now, now all is forgiven, and before we break down in tears again, I was wondering what was in the package I gave you the other day? Was it something grand like jewels? Tell me it was jewels…” Jennie recognizing Caitriona’s blatant attempt at changing the subject, obliged her. “Actually… I haven’t opened it. I was preoccupied.” Jennie said, trying not to sound snarky. “Well, what’s stopping you now? Go get it!” and with a wave of her hand signaled for Jennie to scoot. “Don’t keep me waiting. Go, go get it.” Jennie laughed, “Has anyone ever told you lately? How bossy you are?” Caitriona slowly smiled, “You say that, like it’s a bad thing.” And with that send-off, Jennie went to retrieve the package and take advantage of the time Caitriona gave her to compose herself. Once Jennie walked away, the smile faded quickly from Caitriona’s face, and her regret nibbled at her heart. Then chastising herself for not pushing Shaun harder where Jennie was concerned, she muttered under her breath, “Stubborn Man! Now the real work begins.” And looking heavenward, she prayed for guidance. “Bless me, father, for I have sinned...”