If It Makes You Happy

by Julie Olivia

I’m the woman who gets things done—not the fun daughter.

Apparently, alone is my specialty.

“You’ve charmed me.” I roll my eyes. “See?” he says. “Your scowl, for one, is gorgeous.” “Very funny.”

“Thought I’d let you try first,” he says with a little wink. A wink so casual that my heart stutters. I don’t know the last time anyone winked at me.

“I hate my birthday.” I tuck the card underneath the rest of the mail. His mouth opens mid-laugh, like he’s surprised. “Why?” Sourly, I confess, “It gets lost in the mix of other holidays.”

What is a sisterly relationship if not tumultuous with immediate forgetfulness?

“I hate it when teenagers whisper,” Cliff murmurs. “I feel like I’m getting bullied.”

sometimes, the smallest things have the biggest impact.

I don’t like it when someone starts a cold war without my consent. I only start arguments if I plan to end them and win,

We haven’t always seen eye to eye, but you’re more like me than you know. You’re strong. And we strong women deserve better.