2
My parents went to get the car.
As I followed, someone grabbed my arm from
behind.
I turned to see Shawn’s unhappy face.
He wore a white shirt over a black low–cut T-
shirt, his stylish and rebellious look mirrored
his personality.
His newly pierced diamond studs were visible
above his sexy collarbone.
He stared down at me, smirking sarcastically,
“You’ve gotten feistier, haven’t you?”
“I heard you took a leave of absence. Where’d
you find this boyfriend?”
“How old is he? What does he look like? Do I
know him?”
His aggressive questions seemed caring.
Yet, if I answered honestly, he’d mock and
belittle me, saying I wasn’t worthy. This has
happened many times.
I reacted instantly.
I flung his hand away, uncontrollably shouting,
“It’s none of your business!”
Shawn stared at his hand, surprised.
He stopped smiling.
He frowned, his expression worsening.
Xavier peeked from behind him.
Grinning, he showed his pointed canine teeth,
“What’s wrong? Such a big reaction?”
His usually high–pitched voice sounded
playful, but his words were contrary.
“Did big sis really find a man on the side?”
“Wow, weren’t we three enough?”
His smile widened as he stared at me
meaningfully, saying, “So wild.”
Xavier often joked that the three of them
were my harem.
As if I were promiscuous, powerful, and
special.
But in our little group, I was the one trying to
fit in.
I used to deceive myself.
Although they teased and belittled me, maybe
that’s just how guys are.
L
They’d often hang out with me, and they’d
defend me if I was bullied.
We grew up together, surely I was different to
them.
Until that incident.
I finally understood.
I was just a toy, their amusement.
I met Xavier’s gaze.
His lips were still curved upwards, expecting
my reaction to his outrageous comment.
I met his gaze impassively and turned away.
A few steps later, a cold voice stopped me.
“When are you coming back to school?”
I paused, but answered, “In a couple of days.”
I heard Xavier grumble, clearly irritated.
He loudly muttered for me to hear.
“Typical ex–girlfriend treatment.”
“But-”
“You guys broke up ages ago, Sis, why are
you still giving him special treatment?”
く
It’s funny.
Of the three, Zane most vehemently opposed
marrying me. He called me stupid and clumsy,
saying he wouldn’t marry someone like me.
Yet, I dated him. He even confessed first.