I never understood the two of them. Bella was so harsh, so... mean. Cissy was snotty and simpering, pampered by our parents. Bella ostensibly resented her for that; in return, pretty Cissy kissed the air Bella breathed.
Bella was never tender with her. Never accounted for her youth, but still assumed intellectual superiority. Abused her. Often used her, as she did everyone, as a pawn. And Cissy performed, steadfast. That bit confused me the most.
They both mostly overlooked me and my bewilderment. But Cissy explained once, disparagingly.
"It's just how sisters are. I comply, she pays me back later."