The Doctor's Mate

The incessant hum of my laptop was the only sound in my room, a familiar comfort as I sketched a new dress design. My sanctuary, however, was abruptly invaded by a familiar storm: Bella.

“What do you want?” I asked, my gaze barely lifting from the screen.

“You stole my favorite blue bra. I want it back,” she accused, her voice sharp. I rolled my eyes. “I didn’t take anything, and besides, I don’t fit your size. I’m a cup bigger.”

She scoffed, striding into my closet. A moment later, she emerged, triumphant, clutching the offending garment. “Mom!” she shrieked, her voice carrying through the house.

My mother, Renée, appeared, a sigh already forming on her lips. “What, Bella?”

“Belle stole my bra!”

Renée looked at me, a silent question in her eyes. I just rolled mine. “Mom, her cup size is too small. She planted it herself to get me in trouble again.”

Renée’s sigh deepened. “Bella, go to your room now!”

“But she—”

“I said now. You need to stop getting your sister in trouble. Now go.” Bella stomped her foot, then stormed out, muttering under her breath. I watched her go, a practiced weariness settling over me.

“I’m sorry she keeps trying to do this,” Mom said, stepping further into my room.

“I’m used to it by now,” I replied, a hollow chuckle escaping my lips. She nodded, her expression grim. “Well, if you need to go, just say the words.”

“I will,” I promised, the words tasting like a prayer. She walked out, gently closing the door behind her. The click of the lock echoed the finality of my decision. I was leaving.