For the Honeydukes challenge on the Hogwarts School Of Witchcraft and Wizardry Forum.
"You're moving to England." Alexander's tone is hard. "You're moving to England with John."
Angelica has to remind herself not to flinch when he pulls out the chair next to her. The sound of its legs scraping against the wooden floor screeches in her air. She doesn't turn to face him. Instead, she looks determinedly down and lets her fingers graze over the wedding ring adorning her left hand.
"I know you married him," he continues, "but this is absurd. This act, Angelica, that you love him. That he satisfies you! You'd be better off in New York with your family. Your father is getting old. Eliza will need help with the children. And I—"
"Alexander, stop." Angelica interrupts him with a frown. "John is my family now. Eliza and Peggy will care for our father. Peggy will help Eliza with the children. And as for you…"
"And as for me?"
It's a cruel trap, but one she's long-learned how to side-step. She won't say the words—won't allow herself to be the one who says out loud the things they've only hinted at with glances. She won't be the one to bridge the gap between them—to make the first and final move. She won't be the one to betray her sister.
"I can't do this with you anymore," she snaps. Finally, she turns her head towards him. He looks back at her, his mouth twisted into a smug grin. He relishes—has always relished, she realises—the grip he has on her. She takes a deep breath. "I need a fresh start."
She isn't sure if she's saying it for her benefit or his, but she knows that it's true.
"You won't be happy in England."
"My happiness isn't your concern." Angelica lets out a long sigh. "Eliza's happiness should be your priority. Just as John's happiness is mine."
With that, she pushes her chair back and makes her way to the doorway. She tilts her head and gestures towards it. It's a clear dismissal. And it's with a furrow in his brow that Alexander exits the room, leaving an exhausted Angelica in his wake.