Sandy 18

"Sandra," Professor Brown started, "you are right. Our sistership cannot and should not be a secret. I have always wanted a sister, and now I have one. I want everyone to know.

"But you are right. Though I think it unlikely, someone might decry nepotism. I will talk with my department head and human resources to clarify the rules and regulations. I did not know that you were my sister when I hired you and I do not supervise you in the traditional sense of a university employee. I think your position is safe.

"If someone makes a stink, we have a couple of options.

"One option, which I think we might want to pursue in any case, is to tell our story to the campus newspaper.

"If there is resistance to you working in the Art Department, we could mobilize the students of the class to keep you as their model.

"What do you think?"

Sandy stood smoothly. She reached for Professor Brown's hands and held them as the professor stood. Sandy asked, "May I hug you, Sister?"

The two women clutched one another closely.

Sandy held Professor Brown around the waist and leaned back. "I have never imagined a sister. I just accepted that I would be an only child. The next time I have an IQ test with questions about familial relationships, I still might have to cheat, but I will cheat with confidence.

"But if I understand you correctly, our best approach is to tell everyone that we are sisters. Do you mind if I shout it from the mountaintops?"

Professor Brown caressed Sandy's cheek and said, "Yes, I am proud of you. If you are proud of me, then let's shout at the top of our lungs."

Professor Brown had been speaking metaphorically, but Sandy leaned back and let out a voluminous whoop at the ceiling. When Sandy finished her shout, Professor Brown leaned back and did the same. They looked at each other laughed and both yelled together.