Mark, her husband, offered a polite nod. He had always been quiet around my family, an observer rather than a participant. Dad raised his glass.
“Before we eat, I’d like to propose a toast to Victoria, who just made partner at Mitchell and Associates, the youngest partner in firm history.”
“Partner?”
I looked at my sister.
“Congratulations, Victoria. That’s impressive.”
“Thank you.”
She smoothed her silk blouse.
“It’s been a long time coming.”
Mom beamed.
“See, Emily? That’s what hard work looks like. Real results. Real success.”
I set down my fork.
“Victoria, tell Emily what your new salary is.”
“Dad.”
Victoria laughed.
“That’s tacky.”
“Go on. She should know what ambition can achieve.”
Victoria shrugged.
“Let’s just say it’s substantial.”
“Seven figures,”
Dad announced proudly.
“My daughter. Seven figures.”
The table fell silent. Everyone looked at me.
“That’s wonderful,”
I said quietly.
Dad leaned forward.
“So, Emily, what’s new with you? Still teaching those… what are they?”
“Eighth graders. Seventh and eighth.”
He nodded slowly.
“Right. And that little ceremony you mentioned. When is that again?”
“Tuesday.”
“Ah.”
He picked up his wine.
“Teacher appreciation thing.”
“It’s the National Teacher of the Year—”
“Right. Right.”
He waved his hand.
“Cute.”
Victoria tilted her head, that familiar condescending smile playing on her lips.
“So, Em, what exactly does a teacher make these days, if you don’t mind me asking?”
I knew where this was going.
“Around fifty-two thousand a year.”
Victoria glanced at Mark, suppressing a laugh.
“Honey, that’s less than my monthly bonus.”
Mark shifted uncomfortably in his seat. Dad nodded gravely.
“You see, Emily, this is exactly what I’ve been saying. Teaching has no future, no growth potential. You’re smart. You could have done anything.”
“I did do something.”
My voice stayed level.
“I chose to teach.”
“But why?”
Mom leaned forward, genuinely confused.
“You could have been a lawyer like Victoria or gone into business like your father. Instead, you’re stuck in some classroom with other people’s children.”
