HERMIONE
"Your mother has a valid justification for her actions..."
I mutter under my breath, interrupting Dad's attempt to rationalize Mom's decisions.
Mom's countenance darkens, her displeasure palpable as she sits upright in her chair.
"She demoted me because I refused to participate in a surgery that would likely sully my professional reputation!" I exclaim, brandishing the letter with agitation.
The two sit on separate chairs in the living room, while I stand in the midst, passionately arguing my case.
"Calm down, Hermione, dear—"
Both Mom and I interrupt Dad in unison.
"Not now," I tell Dad, concurrent with Mom's stern interjection, "That's enough, Jackson."
Mom crosses her arms over her chest, her posture exuding an air of authority.
My voice had risen to a high pitch a
