
Cousin Rivalry
By Cheryl Davila

25 Apr, 2024

Grandma looked over the room filled with her offspring. The upcoming arrival of a new family member had brought everyone together, creating an atmosphere of joy and anticipation.

Billy, the eldest amongst the cousins, was convincing his younger cousins that the new baby would surely be a boy. His confident assertion, coupled with his animated hand gestures, had the younger boys completely swayed.

Lucy, the oldest amongst the girls, was trying to convince her group that the new baby would be a girl. She reasoned that the family needed more girls to balance the equation. Her pleas were met with enthusiastic nods from the girls.

Grandma watched the friendly rivalry unfold with amusement. Billy and Lucy were fiercely advocating for their sides, while the younger cousins listened wide-eyed, absorbing their passion.

Grandma answered the phone, her face unreadable. The room fell silent as everyone awaited the news. With a twinkle in her eye, she announced, 'It's a girl!'

Lucy jumped with joy, while Billy tried to hide his disappointment. The girls had won this round, and the room filled with excited chatter and laughter once again.

Grandma smiled as she watched the grown-up cousins. Their childhood rivalry had turned into a fond memory, a tale they would recount to the younger generation with twinkling eyes and hearty laughter.

Billy and Lucy, now adults, found themselves on the same side, teaching the younger cousins about the age-old tradition. The divide had faded, replaced by a bond that was stronger than ever.

Grandma had watched their rivalry, their growth, and their unity. She knew that although the girls and boys had different perspectives, they all loved each other dearly, and that was what truly mattered.

As they prepared for yet another family addition, Billy and Lucy found themselves reminiscing about their childhood. The gender of the new cousin didn't matter anymore, but the tradition held its charm.

Grandma watched as the cousins, now mentors, stood side by side, waiting for the news. Her heart swelled with pride and love. This was her family, her legacy, her joy.

The phone rang once again, bringing everyone to a standstill. Grandma answered with a knowing smile, and as she announced the gender of the new cousin, the room exploded with joy and laughter, just like always.