5
We had housekeepers, but Ethan’s breakfast
L
was my domain. He only liked my cooking,
even after seven years of rejection. My
congee, my omelets, my pastries…
I looked at him, a cold indifference settling over me. “Don’t you have hands? Make your
“”
own.”
Ethan stared, then a slow grin spread across his face. “You don’t love me anymore! It worked!”
Of course it worked. Ethan immediately called Mark. “Dad, she’s awake! She doesn’t love
me! I tested it. We’re free!” He raced
downstairs. “Is Amelia there? I want her to
come to my parent–teacher conference.
و”
く
Blessed silence. I sat down at the piano,
wanting to play, to reconnect with the passion I’d abandoned for Mark. I’d been a music
major, a rising star after that talent show. My professors had sung my praises. Then I fell in love, and my dreams became Mark’s. I’d even sold my piano to help him during his lean years.
I was about to start playing when Ethan reappeared, phone in hand, pointing it at me. “Dad, Amelia, look! Hair up, white dress… she’s copying Amelia!” He sounded
disgusted. “I knew something was off! She’s such a creep!”
Г
He was video–chatting with Mark and Amelia.
Mark was shirtless in bed. Amelia, in a silk
robe, watched with amusement. She was
effortlessly pretty, still looking youthful despite being my age.
I frowned. Mark spoke. “Lily, what are you
e
doing? You’re supposed to not care about
- me. Who are you trying to impress?”
“Marky, don’t be mean. It’s just a
coincidence. I’m sure she’s not trying to copy me,” Amelia said, barely suppressing a giggle.
“She is! She’s so weird! Copying your hair, your dress… pathetic!” Ethan scoffed.
Г
Amelia went quiet, watching me expectantly. I
stood up and slapped Ethan across the face.
