Chapter 3

3.

The next morning, laughter from downstairs woke me up. It was my birthday. My parents had promised me a huge celebration and a fancy dinner.

When I walked out, I saw them huddled around Lila on the sofa. She was wearing a beautiful princess dress. My favorite dress.

It was the one my mom gave me for my twelfth birthday. It was my most prized possession.

The laughter stopped the moment they saw me. I felt like an intruder at a private party.

My mom looked a bit uncomfortable. "Avery, Lila really loved this dress. Since you're the big sister, you should let her have it. I'll buy you a new one later."

I stood on the stairs, looking down at the three of them. "It's just a birthday gift," I said tonelessly. "As long as you guys are happy."

The air turned heavy. My dad's expression darkened instantly. "Avery, it's just a dress. Do you have to be so sarcastic?"

"Avery, apologize to your sister," my mom added, her voice sharp. "You're being very difficult."

My birthday gift was stolen, but I was the bully. That was the power of their favoritism.

In my past life, I would have locked myself in my room and cried. This time, I just looked at the table. There were only scraps of breakfast left.

"So," I said calmly. "Did anyone remember it's my birthday?"

They both froze. The realization hit them like a physical blow. They had completely forgotten.

"Oh, honey... yesterday was so hectic with Lila's doctor..." my mom started, standing up to save face. "I'll go get a cake right now."

My dad, however, doubled down. He slammed the remote onto the glass coffee table. "You didn't remind us! How were we supposed to know? We are busy people!"

"You're so spoiled," he continued. "You think the world revolves around you. It's just a birthday. We'll eat later. Lila's health is a priority, not your party!"

Even if I had reminded them, Lila would have found a way to ruin it. I didn't feel anything anymore.

As I walked downstairs, I caught a glimpse of Lila's face. She was smirking. She looked triumphant.

A second later, she put on her crying mask. "Dad, don't be mad at Avery. It's my fault. I shouldn't have been born sick or worn her dress."

"I'll go back to the orphanage," she sobbed. "You guys should celebrate her birthday. I'll always remember how kind you were."

My parents were moved to tears by her selflessness. They hugged her, ignoring me as if I were a ghost.

I realized then that their love was fragile. Lila didn't even have to try hard to make them switch their loyalty.

Fine. Let her have them. I'm moving on.