Family Trouble

My family and I are eating at our dining table in our house. My father, Gregor, is across from me and my sister. Same with our mother, Matilda.

"How's school Ursula?" Our father asks my sister.

"It's going fine. The teachers are nice. Though, Julius is being mean to me again." Ursula says timidly. She seems very nervous around father for some reason.

"Would that really explain why your heavenly studies grades have fallen off?" His tone seems to mock her a bit. "Thaddeus, you shouldn't take Ursula as an example. When you start school next year. I expect nothing but top of the class from you." His tone doesn't let up towards me either.

"I understand father." I say with confidence. I bite my tongue wanting to defend Ursula. But, knowing father, he'd yell at me back.

"Anyway, Your Mother and I have an announcement to make." He looks at mother smiling. His spiteful tone is immediately gone.

"Thaddeus you're going to be an older brother." Mother tells me in excitement. The shock of it doesn't initially hit until a few seconds later.

"A new Stuart to the family?" I exclaimed. Both parents are nodding. Ursula remained quiet. But, she remained composed with a smile.

After that we finished and were excused to our rooms. 'Damn Stuart formalities.' I think to myself.

After everyone had gone to bed. Ursula came into my room in tears. I knew exactly why. Our father is rather strict on us. And it seems to be taking a toll on Ursula a bit. I hugged her, wrapping her in my arms.

"I hate him sometimes." Her voice squeaked to me. I pet her head. 'Is this how a little brother is supposed to treat his big sister? Because right now I feel more like the older one here.' My mind wanders as I pet Ursula's head.

"I know you do. I'm not too happy about it either. I wanted to say something. But, you know how father is." I comfort her by sitting on the bed continuing to hug her.

Time goes by for what seemed like an hour and I'm still hugging my sister who's crying her eyes out. 'She really is a child.' I push her away slightly so she can face me.

"Feel a little better now?" I asked her. Ursula nodded as she wiped tears from her eyes. "Ok, you should sleep. We'll take a break from the sky tonight." I whispered.

"Hey, Teddy." She looked at me. "Can I sleep with you tonight?"