Chapter 2

2、

Back at the house, Cora pulled me down to sit on the sofa. My brother, Zach, and Sienna were busy rummaging through the bags of gifts I brought.

"Valerie, our Jace is a genius," Cora bragged. "He just ranked third in the state for English and first for Math. Overall, he's number four!"

My father, Arthur, chimed in. "Valerie, since Jace is doing so well, you should show some appreciation as his aunt."

In my past life, Sienna would always brag about his fake grades in the family group chat. My dad and Cora would guilt-trip me into sending money.

Back then, I thought we were a team. I thought he was actually smart, so I sent huge Venmo payments every time.

Eventually, they made me pay for everything. Pens, tuition, even his expensive SAT prep.

When he moved in with me, his grades crashed. I thought he was just struggling with the city pace.

I spent my life savings on tutors for him. I cooked him organic, brain-boosting meals every single day.

Money flowed out of my pockets like water. Meanwhile, Zach and Sienna lived it up. They traveled the world while I raised their son.

They wanted to fleece me again? Not a chance.

"Jace is so smart!" I said cheerfully. "Of course I have to give him a special gift."

I reached into my bag and pulled out a massive bag of chewing tobacco and a huge box of rare cigarette cards.

The adults' faces turned black instantly. Only Jace screamed in excitement.

"Auntie Valerie! You're the best! These are the ultra-rare cards! The guys at school are going to be so jealous!"

Sienna marched into her bedroom, slamming the door. Cora's face was cold as ice.

"Valerie, you're just tricking a child. What kind of aunt gives a kid this stuff?"

The atmosphere turned sour. My father walked over, frowning deeply. "Valerie, Jace is our golden boy. What were you thinking?"

I handed my dad a peeled apple and smiled. "I know he's a treasure. Look how much he loves his gifts!"

My father had nothing to say to that. He grunted and went to his room.

Jace looked up at me. "Auntie, can you bring me more next time?"

He already smelled like stale tobacco, like a man twice his age.

I leaned in and whispered, "I don't smoke, Jace. But your dad and grandpa do. If they smoke more, you'll get your collection finished way faster!"