Sibling Rivalry

Story:

The lights onstage were blinding, but she knew from the cacophony coming from the seats that the ceremony had sold out. She’d always felt at ease in the spotlight, yet it still gave her a thrill to draw such a large crowd. She rehearsed her remarks in her head – I couldn’t have written this book alone… I am honored and humbled to receive this award… – and then felt a buzz in her handbag. A message from her younger brother, her most adoring fan – and her toughest competitor.

Congratulations, sis. Tennis this weekend? Can’t let all the success go to your head. I’ve been working on my backhand…

In some ways, they were like night and day. She was cerebral, he was an artisan. She loved to strategise, he jumped in feet first. She could be stoic, even steely, whilst he was loud, expressive, and led with his heart. And yet the volley between them that had begun as children had persisted, with sparkling intensity, even as they grew into distinctly different adults.

When had they begun to vie with one another? Neither could remember a time before they were competitors. As children, they spent their summers chasing each other round the meadow behind their grandparents’ cottage, until the evening sky glowed amber and they were called indoors for dinner. In prep school, their rivalry turned intellectual. Who possessed a greater command of history, of literature, of classic cinema? Fearful of being outshined, each became more dazzling.

On the surface, it was folly. Yet their hungry competition betrayed their jealous aspirations. Neither could rest in the other’s company, suspicious that a single lapse in striving could lead to their betrayal. Beneath their friendly swordplay lay a spurious unease.

And as they grew older, the volley continued. Her first book deal, his first solo exhibition. His first magazine profile, her first week on the bestseller list. One achievement after the next, hers then his, his then hers, back and forth, steady as a pulse.

The lights in the audience began to fade. Soon all eyes would be on her. But of course, in short order, it would be his turn again.

With an impish grin, she dashed off a reply:

Game on.

Pyramid:

Sizes: 100ml
Type: EDP