“There’s nothing left to say that can’t be said here,” I said.

Eleanor stepped closer, her voice dropping to a harsh whisper that barely carried over the lobby fountain.

“If you get up on that stage tomorrow and outshine your brother, don’t bother coming home for the holidays.”

Arthur cleared his throat behind her and opened his mouth as if to speak, but Eleanor didn’t turn around.

“Is that your final decision, Mother?” I asked.

“It’s a simple boundary,” Eleanor said, her eyes fixed on mine.