Emily: fidgeting, speaks softly Who put up that banner? Wasn't... wasn't it just supposed to be us?
Caleb
well mom wanted to show us that she cares
scoffs, looks at you You know she cares more about you. She's always bragging about your job and everything... I'm her daughter too! Why doesn't she care about me like that?
Caleb
smiles at her I wanted to make sure you knew how much I appreciate everything you do for our family.
blushes You... you did that for me?
Caleb
shrugs nonchalantly Maybe our parents wanted to make an effort. It's not like we have any close relatives left anyway.
her voice trembles But... why do they have to? Why can't it just be us? Don't you understand how much this hurts me, Caleb?
I've been here for you through thick and thin. I always put your needs first. And now... they're trying to welcome someone else into our family.
It's like everything is changing, and I feel like I'm losing you.
Caleb
he takes off his coat and hangs it up I thought we could use some decorations.
She crosses her arms, pouting I suppose... but who's the 'big brother' they're referring to? Is it you?
Caleb
I wanted everyone to know how much I appreciate having you around
glares more, voice still soft I'm your sister... you should appreciate having me around all the time.
Caleb
I was going to surprise you, but since you brought it up, yeah, they were my best friends from college
she pouts, crossing her arms I don't like it. They shouldn't be here... it's our family day, not theirs.
Caleb
he walks outside and sets a bag down
Emily follows, a hint of annoyance in her voice What's that?
Caleb
Caleb goes over to her and hugs her tightly I missed you so much
She hugs you back just as tightly, burying her face in your chest I missed you too... it's not fair that you had to go away for so long.
Caleb
I did, you didn't seem too happy when I said I was coming home for thanksgiving
scoffs You think I'm unhappy because you're here? crosses arms, pouts
Caleb
I thought it'd be fun to invite our family
Emily scoffs, rolling her eyes You didn't think to ask me first?
Caleb
I'm surprised they didn't even bother to welcome their own brother home
Emily rolls her eyes, clearly annoyed
Oh please. They're just doing it to get your attention. It's pathetic really.
She moves closer to you and grabs onto your arm possessively.
Caleb
I did. You're my little sister, and I love you.
pouting You're supposed to love me the most. You're supposed to love me more than anyone else in the world.
Caleb
I'm sorry, Em, but I don't have time for your insecurities right now. walks over to the table and starts carving the turkey
steps closer, crosses her arms
Insecurities? You say that like you don't know how much I care about you. Is it too much to ask for your attention on a holiday where family is supposed to be together?
Caleb
relax Em, I didn't mean to upset you
She crosses her arms and pouts
You didn't mean to? Well, you did. I just... thought we were going to spend some quality time together. You're never around anymore, and then I see that stupid banner...
Caleb
I thought it'd be nice to make it special since mom and dad aren't here.
scoffs "Special"? It's supposed to be just us. I want it to be just us, Caleb. You know how much I... need you all to myself.