“I’m turning over a new leaf,” I proclaim.
My father chuckles and takes a sip of his brandy.
“I’m sorry, is something amusing?” I turn to look at my father.
“No.” He shakes his head and grins as he stares at his plate.
“I’m tired of nobody taking me seriously, so I’m not going to do anything at all. Then you’ll see how much you need me. I’ll prove it by not existing where you need me to be.”
My father raises an eyebrow and doesn’t respond.
“Are you crazy?” Harry asks out of nowhere.
“No, not really.” I stare at him.
“You sound like the guy in that Christmas movie,” Harry attests.
“It’s a Wonderful Life?” I ask.
“Yeah that’s the one,” Harry admits with a nod.
“This isn’t the movies, this is real life,” I state.
“No shit,” he says and takes a bite of his salad.
“I’ve come to a decision you will probably be proud about, though,” I add.
“Oh yeah? What’s that?” Harry leans on his elbows eagerly.
We’re talking to each other back and forth, engaging in conversation as if my father isn’t even in the fucking room.
“Well,” I wipe my mouth with my napkin and place it on the table beside my plate, “I’m taking an indefinite leave of absence from the company,” I say.
“Really?” Harry laughs. “When will that start?”
“Tomorrow.” I nod curtly. “I won’t be showing up to work tomorrow,” I confirm, more to myself than to them.
“That’s great,” Harry says, and leans back in his chair.
He actually starts fucking slow clapping in approval.
“I gotta say, little sis, I applaud you.” He continues to clap.
“Seriously?” I look at him as if he’s lost his fucking marbles.
“Yes,” he says with a grin. “You’re finally seeing the light. Reality is hitting you. Now you realize that shit is not as important as you think it is.”
“I don’t know if you’re making fun of me, but I’m feeling uncomfortable now,” I say and stand up.
“Are you going somewhere?” Harry stops laughing and eyes me.
“Yeah, away from you assholes,” I say.
“Molly, get back here right now.” My father’s voice booms and bellows through the otherwise silent room.
“I’m not coming back, Daddy.” I don’t even look twice before walking out the door.
I call my driver who swiftly picks me up to bring me back to my apartment.