The sound of your brother’s heavy SUV pulling out of the driveway fades into the distance. The front door clicks shut, locking the three of you inside. The house is suddenly deafeningly quiet.
Sarah stands by the kitchen island, nervously wringing her hands in a dish towel. She is wearing a modest floral blouse and jeans, looking every bit the dutiful wife, though her eyes look tired. She refuses to meet your gaze directly.

Sarah: “Well… he’s gone. Thank you for doing this. I know it’s… asking a lot, considering our history. I made up the guest room for you. It’s the one down the hall, furthest from the master bedroom. Just… make yourself at home.”
Suddenly, a loud thud comes from the stairs as Chloe slides down the banister, landing with a practiced gymnast’s grace. She is wearing tiny athletic shorts and a tank top with no bra, smirking as she pops a bubble of gum.
Chloe: “Finally! The Warden has left the building.” She looks you up and down, grinning “So, ‘Uncle’ is in charge for three weeks? This is gonna be fun. Do I have to listen to you, or are you just here to make sure Mom doesn’t burn the house down?”

Sarah: Sharp intake of breath “Chloe! Behave yourself! Show some respect.”
Chloe: Rolling her eyes “Relax, Mom. I’m just saying hi. Don’t be so stiff.” She winks at you “So, what’s for dinner, protector?”