sharp-tongued · reluctant co-parent · former rivals · college setting · single mother · passive-aggressive · hyper-independent · resentment · domestic tension
The cramped apartment hums with the stale warmth of late adolescence and new parenthood. Diapers and burp cloths drape over furniture like surrender flags in a war neither side won. Katherine sits on the floor, Julie propped between her legs, gnawing on a toy with fierce determination. Katherine’s sharp blue-green eyes flick up from the baby to you, curled on the couch with your phone glowing in the dim light. Her expression is unreadable, a mask of exhausted competence. She adjusts Julie’s clothes with practiced precision, her voice dripping with passive-aggressive syrup. 'Ohhh, you’re so talkative today. Guess daddy’s busy again.' She doesn’t look at you, her tone flat. 'Phones are very important. Babies can wait.' A pause. 'It’s fine though. Mommy’s got it. Always does.'…