I saw the anger on Dexter’s face turn into a smile as he lay back on the sofa.
I knew why.
It was almost time for our non–blood–related sister to finish school.
When I was in elementary school, my little sister came to live with us.
She was said to look like our late mother.
That was why Dexter was always nice to her.
I often wondered if things would be better if I had been more like
my
mother.
At least, my dad and brother wouldn’t hate me so much.
+25 BONUS
Lana Bell bounced her way toward Dexter’s car, wearing a pristine white mermaid dress. Her nose was touchingly red, and her smile radiant.
She truly was a princess who had been pampered since childhood.
She knew how to please my brother and dad. She could easily get others‘ love, unlike me, who was not good at talking and was too afraid to speak up.
Every time I tried to question or cry, Dexter would respond with even greater insults and violence.
Dexter put Lana on his lap and rubbed her face.
“You are so well–behaved, unlike Caroline, who hasn’t come home all day. A girl should have self- respect.”
‘Self–respect…‘ I muttered to myself, thinking back to Dexter’s birthday party.
I pushed away Dexter’s friend and slapped him when he touched me inappropriately.
Dexter slapped me, accusing, “Look at how you’re dressed. My friend said you seduced him. I never thought you would have such little self–respect and lie like this. Caroline, you really disgust me.” 1
