The sound of an airplane whizzing above the roof in the sky was her alarm clock.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡlz22aO4Duh
Yawning, she blearily blinked her eyes open, stretching her body and rolling around on the bed. As she started to be aware of everything around her, the sound of birds chirping outside became clearer and she caught a faint whiff of morning breakfast. Ah, this is so comfortable. Nothing beats my personal space, after all.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡjZXyNIyboW
December thought it was a good night's sleep, despite the slight meltdown last night.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡhcDEfNqycV
She sighed when last night's memories flitted across her mind and groaned to herself. I can't keep letting this get to me.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡpxurAEfFiK
Staring at the ceiling, she thought of what to do today. Most importantly, she needed to know if her parents were going to stay here for good or if this was just a short homecoming. After what seemed like a long time lying on the bed, she begrudgingly got up to make her bed when a knock sounded on her door.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡWBJU9xCIJ1
"Come in." December said mindlessly as she tried to tuck the sheets back in its place.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡE0diEs651i
"Morning, love." Her mother said before she looked around. "Do you like your room? I told Ursula to leave most of your things be, in case you want them just the way they are."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1qQvRra76s
December took a quick look around her bedroom; everything was neat and clean, just the way she left it a couple of years ago. She smiled. "I like it, mum. Thanks."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡS33CXd9AVS
Her mother smiled. "It's the least I could do for you." A pause. Then, her mother asked, "Did you sleep well last night, darling?"copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡBzTPRyhXEi
Thinking it was an innocent question all parents asked, she smiled and nodded, "Yes, I did."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡgFJ7bBylJF
Her mother stared at her for a moment, eyes roving to take in her features and December started to feel as though something was wrong.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡNCJReG5oh0
"Mum, is something wrong?"copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡhSAbHsKZqo
Her mother shook her head and gave her a soft smile. "You must have been tired yesterday." Then, she said, "Well, come on now. I've made some breakfast." before closing the door.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡiH42OfDnBn
December shrugged to herself and quickly made her bed, tossing a couple of pillows that was on the floor on the bed. She went out to the hallway and headed towards the bathroom, and stopped short when she saw her face.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2pZLgdsmCJ
It was very pale and…was her eyes red and puffy?copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡmUCX5kpPjQ
Wait.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡeCxjElyiJa
Was that why her mum asked her if she had slept well?copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡFMzExQS0cv
Or did she found out about yesterday –copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡJzpmwuGWk0
No.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡNyCkShGrAp
December shook her head. There was no way anyone knew about the hostile relationship between her brother and her. Besides, her parents were just too busy about other things to even notice that. And why would they? They had always put up the 'get-along-well' sibling act around their parents.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡBfbaUJ0NKd
At least mum was right about something; I was exhausted.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡiuMIQjcwgx
Fifteen minutes later, she walked into the dining room and sat beside her father, while her mother loaded more pancakes on to the plate. She greeted her parents, and received a warm greeting on the cheek by her father, and the whole thing seemed like a family advertisement to her. She giggled quietly, which got her father's attention.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡw369oYr4p1
"Want to share the joke?" Her father asked with a smile, putting down the newspaper he was reading aside, and took a sip of his coffee.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡu0hGbcqcZa
December giggled and shook her head. "Nothing." She took a couple of pancakes and drizzled maple syrup on it. She started casually though hopeful. "So, are you going to be staying here for long?"copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡpiEc0vwd1M
December didn't miss the subtle glances her parents sent each other. They looked hesitant, as though they were keeping something from her and December felt anxiety gnawing at her.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡKyQQIeP9je
"You see, darling," her mum started with a smile before pausing, shaking her head then continued, "Well, we had planned to but we got a call yesterday from a client."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡbOfsvrEWDE
Her stomach dropped. December's expression changed from being slightly hopeful at first before it became indifferent. It didn't help when her father added his two cents.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ73XMfXhMbj
"And it's in Norway." He added awkwardly. Seeing the look on his daughter's face made him feel at a loss. He exchanged looks with his wife and she interjected quickly.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡyWRpMAECJY
"But it won't be for another two more days. Until then we can still…"copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡQUN6nix2fa
December tuned out the rest. She blinked and composed herself as though she was listening to them, nodding mindlessly while shoveling bits of pancakes into her mouth automatically. She didn't think she was aware that she was eating.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡHmeE8uCpgN
She should have anticipated this, shouldn't she? After all, she was used to it. But she had hoped, damn it, she had bloody well hoped that this time they were going to stay with her for good.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡJPJAewbT8U
"…We'll make sure to call you and see you at every chance we get, okay? Besides, you won't be alone anymore. Michael's staying here for his break."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡRZPE5cXDfc
It wasn't until she had downed her glass of juice that her mother's words registered in her mind. Rather, the latter parts of the words.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡOWy2AHwd7M
She froze. If she were drinking, December had no doubt she would have spluttered her drink.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0QBKrQhCJq
"What?" She yelled.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡwBpmfvzd9O
Taken aback by their daughter's outburst, they could only stare at her in bewilderment; her mother raised an eyebrow at her.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡpXLYZlGwyN
Feeling her cheeks getting heated, she stuttered, "S-sorry. I was just..." Then, she cleared her throat and continued with a forced but casual tone, "Did you say that Michael will be staying here?"copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡizDUk4LBGu
Please. Say no. Say that he isn't.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1d5rAlX9y6
"Yes." Her father smiled.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡYY3JX35EzE
No!copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡrSe5Ny9yaQ
Her face must have looked pale because her mother looked at her in concern and went to her side. "Darling, are you alright?"copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2c48DEuBO3
December felt her surroundings closed in on her and found herself unable to catch a breath. She tried to focus on her now alarmed parents' face but she couldn't do anything to assure them that she's fine.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡHN2LwZPBDp
Because that's the thing; she wasn't fine.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡg5hua52kDd
The room started to spin and the words she heard sounded slow. She blinked furiously and tried to keep her breathing even. She couldn't let herself be disoriented because of her devil of a brother.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡaGpfP3UjEJ
Taking a deep breath and exhaling it, she murmured, "I see."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡmmwo72oXE2
Her father then asked, "You're okay, sweetheart? You scared us there."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡmU7EpiJsCn
December forced a smile. "Sorry. I think I was still tired." She lied.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡFN343S7XbM
December then said, "Doesn't he have that thesis or something? Maybe he needs to go back."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡGy8dXffldU
None of them heard the front door opening nor did they heard his footsteps approaching them, until he said, "I'm on my break now. Besides, this looks like an interesting place and I wouldn't mind going on a tour. Who better to show me than my own little sister?"copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡozPvdeOXHq
All of them turned to Michael who was leaning against the dining room's entrance wall with different reactions; their parents smiled in delight whereas December looked like she wanted to throw up.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡkmeorhgzes
"That settles it, then!" Her mother clasped her hands in utter delight.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡlV1t8YJojW
She couldn't stand being there with all of them in her brother's presence so she excused herself.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡiHw8dKm2H3
It was a pointless thing to do because her parents didn't seem to listen since they were busy talking to Michael and asking him how his morning jog went and plans for the rest of his break.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡs2qGqSXHrc
Disappointed, wounded, and frustrated, she stomped up the stairs to her room, feeling a bit of satisfaction at that rebel act despite being ignored.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9N8ahg81Fs
December screamed into her pillow in frustration. Usually when she did that, she was able to let off the steam but it didn't work this time.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡXYau6oesqW
Like a tigress pacing in her cage, she felt restless and bored. On the other hand, she was very relieved and excited that her parents were home with her, but it would have been better if her brother weren't in the picture.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡwTYXApPy6h
On the contrary, it seemed now that she wasn't in the picture of this family considering how she was completely disregard earlier.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡKf5TqmaznP
She sighed. I need to take my mind off of these!copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1lNcPTB3m1
She reached her phone and called her friends first, but none of them answered. Not even Raven. She then went to dial her newly made friends but stopped. Even though they were dorm mates and had a great time hanging out one night, she suddenly felt unsure if she wanted to ask them to hang out with her; they could all have gone back home for all she knew.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0TVYQvnG3u
No, as far as I know, only the guys, Ramona, and Piper went back home, or are preparing to.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡYOJ3HaqSJN
But still…copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡHL9vXZoz3L
She felt sick. Sick of feeling helpless, sick of feeling friendless even when she's surrounded by her friends, and sick of not being able to say what she want whenever she wants!copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡA3Ew1v1pb5
And she had to deal with her Satan brother!copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡT9TDdBNDtx
The sound of bullets hitting the roof jolted her from her thoughts. Looking out, she realized that it was raining heavily and smiled in bittersweet content.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡraiAGgA4PD
Well, at least the weather seemed to agree with me.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡQqGuWIZY8b
The moment she knew it, it had been three days since she left her dorm and stayed at her family's residence.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ32kWFyxtb1
And the first day she would be living with Michael as her guardian since her parents were going away.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1DcjeSAOXq
Despite the news during breakfast on Sunday morning about them flying to another country for work, her parents had cajoled her into spending the day with them, visiting some of the places they went to when they first came to San Francisco, watched a movie and even had dinner outside. It was pleasant and fun because fortunately her brother had to attend to some things, but her mood soured when he showed up for dinner that night. For the next couple of days, she tried to steer away from him and was successful at it since he wasn't at home most of the time. But apparently that would change now that he was appointed as her guardian.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡrNR7hNPhLX
Her mother and father were busying themselves with their suitcases, rushing around to get their things before they forgot about it, and December watched them, like an unannounced visitor.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡsOZNLFlj9x
She decided she'd announced herself to them just when her parents simultaneously nodded at themselves as they checked everything.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡkaaxuop5cm
"So today's the day, huh."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡvD9mLraBIW
Okay, so she was still bitter that they're going away, but December couldn't help it.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡzaLzYwejPo
Startled, December's mother flashed a small smile at her daughter. "Darling, try to understand. If we could stay, we would have."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡRay2H3q78D
Try to understand? I have always done that, she scoffed mentally.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡtDhC024aDM
Her father came over and put a hand on her shoulder. "Don't be so sad, sweetheart, you know this will be a short trip. It's not like we'll be there for long," He joked before kissing her head. "We'll be back by then."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6cXSLVo0fe
December had many thoughts racing in her mind, so much that she ached to just say what she wanted to say. But she couldn't. Especially not when they were going to leave for the airport any minute now.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡo6pX960ze8
Besides, it wouldn't make a difference; she tried before but it never had.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡdHMukMxoXa
So, like a routine she had perfected long ago, she raised her chin and forced a happy smile, enough to ease the worried look on her parents face and enough to hold herself together. And it had always worked.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡb4n8W93laj
Though her smile seemed to wobble a bit, she shook head and flashed a wide grin. "You know what, it's alright. Just be careful and call me once you get there, yeah."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡzyqYwz5x9j
Her mother smiled gratefully and pulled her into her arms, whispering into her ear. "You're such a good daughter for understanding. I'm proud of you, darling." She kissed December's temple.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡFm1sQlfoKc
She hugged both her parents tightly and watched them entered the cab, waving at them until they were out from her view.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡyVhW3e57zg
Desperately seeking her room now, she turned back and let out a short scream.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡr8OR7lrdSA
"Why do you always creep behind me?" Sadness forgotten, her anger and wariness resurfaced at the sight of Michael.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡxyXy0OUfcE
Wearing a light orange button up shirt and khakis, December thought he was going to go out and desperately hoped that was the case. The lesser she had to see him, the better.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡsLAJHDYNLx
Michael smiled his usual devilish grin. "I wasn't."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3dGS4Odw16
She narrowed her eyes at him in wary disbelief then shook her head. She just didn't have the time or energy to argue with him.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7zE47FS2U5
"Are you going out?"copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡHnQh7yV5lH
"Do you want me to?"copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡCpUjhZ7vv9
"Very much, yes." She couldn't help but retort heatedly with a glare. Sometimes, she was amazed at herself that despite being afraid and wary towards him, her mouth managed to come up with snappy comebacks which would have made at least one of Karen Joyce's crony speechless.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡCDIgHQVASQ
But there was always a price to pay when it seemed that she had gone too far with him.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡGAdwRk4Mqq
Like now.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡt2Pom7ntDT
His face was a dark expression before he had a menacing grin plastered on his face. "You can't avoid me forever, December. I'm afraid you'll just have to…grovel in my presence."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡCfwkwdbsO4
She took a deep breath. December thought this could not go on any longer. She simply couldn't stand for it.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡiuEw1vR6ih
Clenching her shaky fists tightly, she took another deep breath and looked him in the eye.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡwMkmaGtx97
"No."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡqMmX7TbilZ
Michael raised his eyebrow challengingly at her, pushing the door shut behind December with his hand. She gulped inaudibly.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡmDu0aww1CO
"What did you say again?" He asked quietly. A quiet rage brewed in his stormy eyes.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡi8BCuMiYjs
No backing away now. What else can he – yeah, okay better not push my luck. Still, I need to woman up.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5KesImlTEH
"I said no." She replied quietly, and damned if her voice didn't have that slight quiver to it.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡT1ln2vTywv
Michael seemed to have noticed that and his evil grin grew wider. He looked at her mockingly now. "December, December, December…do you honestly think," this time there wasn't any trace of amusement on his face as he looked at her in contempt. "that by saying no, you'll get your way? Haven't you learned your lesson, dear sister?" He spat out the last word.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡnPEZr9LK85
"Wh-what do you want from me?" She dared to ask. She had come this far to standing up against him and there was simply no backing away now, or so she told herself. "Why do you hate me so much?" December hated the tremor and begging tone in her voice but her mouth ran like motor.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡddQrGyN2rs
Michael was taken aback for a brief moment, because they had never ventured more in a conversation than the usual cowering, which was done by her since she rarely spoke against him. He slowly composed himself then smirked.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡJkt5IvAB47
"Huh. You've been living away for far too long. The American culture has rubbed off on you."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7sWMroWc84
December found herself feeling dumbfounded. Now what bull is this?copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡhlh7NYFB07
"You were such a timid girl then…" he continued in a trail before saying, "Talking back against me and even showing mum and dad your displeasure? I don't think I trained you this way. Guess you've found some backbone, didn't you?copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3KrxP93qL7
That ticked her off, especially since he mentioned the word 'trained'. In a way, it was true. He had been 'training' her to be timid, repressive, insecure, and the list could go on which was beginning to make her hate herself more for letting it happened. Even admitting that was painful and disgusting. Though that had worked when she was in Bristol, she had learned to unwind that when she was here, with the help of her friends.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡxTztG1RCd0
December didn't want to think of the possibility of having her freedom to express herself being stripped away from her again.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡGumYCaWiLX
"Enough." She gritted her teeth.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡpOHQmx0pXM
"What?" he taunted. "Can't face the music? Are you going to tell mum and dad? You know they don't really care about you."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡwuF6Yl7QXl
Liar. "That's not true!" She protested. "I'll…I'll tell them." Her voice was beginning to quaver but she held herself.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡREQdCsnyK9
This time, he laughed out loud. A harsh, mocking laugh that knew no warmth. "Really? And what, dear sister, do you think they can do about it? We had always been the perfect children to them. I've always been the smartest, confident, and political one between us. Do you think they'd believe you? One word from me, and I can even have them move you back to London...or Bristol." His grin was downright sinister that December suddenly felt the full threat in those words and her environment.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡw9Ye0kL0JJ
Tears pricked in her eyes and she struggled to hold herself together. But she was so frustrated, so angry, and so insecure that she hated herself more for not being strong enough to not crumble before him.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡMgesndOv3M
It was like she was letting him win again, and she knew he had.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡQVqG828wBT
"I hate you." She seethed at him, a tear slipped on her cheek but she was too distraught to even care.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡG83Em3Y84I
Michael raised an eyebrow at her, and without warning, she didn't have time to flinch or move away from him when he brushed the tear on her cheek with his thumb none too gently. "You're crying? Ah, how I missed this sight. Still pathetic as ever, huh?"copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡSRY6kmj8Rn
He wiped his thumb on his shirt multiple times, as if to get rid of something disgusting and said to her in that mocking voice of his, "See December, this is why you're always going to be weak. An unlikable, friendless, pathetic girl like you do not deserve to be treated equally by me. You're worthless and it seemed like I'll have to drill that into your thick skull since you haven't learned your lesson yet. Maybe I have been lenient all these years." He rubbed his chin thoughtfully.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡUHiknrnwXZ
"You're mental!" She yelled, not caring if she looked like a blubbering mess.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡqE7tiuwgCB
Michael had a dark scowl as he closed in on her and slammed a hand against the door, caging her in the process. Instinctively, she held up her arms as a shield to protect her from him. When she didn't feel any pain on her, she blinked and looked up only to see him struggling to control his laughter, before it broke out.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡZutYANkUVb
"A priceless expression! This will be fun." He laughed at her stricken and bewildered look. His face then contorted into a menacing scowl. "I am in charge now, December. I always have so don't you dare forget that."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡhQTzbh1yOZ
After he left the house, she immediately ran to her room and crashed on her bed, wailing and sobbing into the pillow and cursing him to hell for treating her this way.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡyeDFHV9ecM
She hated him, truly, utterly hated him.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡQbgj9R6uM2
December stayed in her room the entire day. She didn't have the energy to connect with others nor go outside. There was no point since she would still have to come home to the presence of her maniac of a brother.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡG3SzD4RFDF
After spending hours trying to stop his words from getting to her but failing, her tears were spent and her throat became raw from all the wailing and sobbing. She wanted to blame everyone; her parents for abandoning her again, her devil of a brother for doing this to her, and the rest of her friends for not even checking up on her.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡEbUhQBc0Qo
But she realized she was also to blame.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡMGA30KV7eH
If only she had been strong enough to not let him get to her…copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9UL2up6m4J
…copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1IVW0LycMo
…copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡBz5bD5Vyc9
…it seemed impossible for a weakling her, but she was determined.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡgm42ozsvVx
December was determined to make a change, because she was exhausted of being pathetic.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡfXfaTfWrsJ
Somehow, she just had to, even if it would kill her.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ3iWfW1bve
That night, she decided to come out of her room and face the demon.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡlMBpO0YhvT
She heard him come home and from the sound of the television downstairs, was sure he was lounging in the living room.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡOLR4VKkScM
Composing a neutral, unaffected look, she glanced at him as she came down stairs before heading towards the kitchen.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡB2QUY6Q0hl
Michael only glanced at her smugly before he focused on whatever was on the television. December was heating up the lasagna that her mum had made earlier. As she waited for it to heat, she heard Michael called out.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡfC7Q2WQ1dl
"Is that lasagna I smell? Get one for me too!"copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡV16M62wqUI
She rolled her eyes and muttered vehemently to herself, "How about no?"copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡdwL3qK9gKr
She didn't fail to notice that there were four lasagna earlier but two were missing before she heated hers. She cast an accusing look at where he was.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡCZ3KP6GF7U
She had decided that she would try not to invoke his wrath, but also not be subservient to him either. Begrudgingly, she heated up his portion too and brought it to him.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ12W8O2blt6
"Here." She said indifferently.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4GCPJ2zTik
He glanced at it before taking it and resumed watching the TV. Glad that he wasn't talking to her much, she took her lasagna and water with her to her room, when he stopped her.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡkVkoFaumPB
"Where are you going?"copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡhRDd0sgbNJ
"Upstairs?" She answered casually with a hint of sassy. He didn't seemed to take notice of that.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡhRpUH9Wh2f
Suddenly, he got up from the couch and December's shackles of caution were raised. Wordlessly, he walked over to the dining room and sat down. Michael looked at her in question before gesturing her with his eyes to take a seat.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡBnaWLP6fcW
He seemed agreeable to her a little bit, and so she aimed to keep it like that. Moving to take her seat across from him, she sat down and started to take a bite.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡRtNvGOXXZL
They ate in silence; she wouldn't say it was a peaceful silence because there was still some palpable sensation in the air, but she enjoyed her food quietly. Mum's lasagna is the best.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡGhD5bkf8Ch
December looked at her food, not even wanting to steal a brief look at him in case he was watching her with that stupid evil face of his. It was when she was almost done with her food that Michael suddenly spoke.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡneExaqngGz
"From now on, it's best that you stay at home and go to school from here."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡcx202JO0GO
She froze. Rather, her fingers stilled. Despite the composed look she had on her face, there was a small, quiet storm of anger in her eyes.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡLm5oshJHpl
"It's one hour away from here."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡZMAEkK4H0K
"Then, wake up early."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡgdhidk11kH
"The point of staying in a dorm is to get to school on time without causing me any trouble. Why would I need to wake up early and commute for an hour to school when I have everything that's convenient for me on campus?" Even more, it enables me to get away from you. She made sure her tone didn't have a sense of sarcasm, but unfortunately her brother didn't get that.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡP54VuxdefD
He narrowed his eyes at her and said quietly. "Are you talking back against me?"copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡzeq9SKUXrU
She sighed inwardly but replied with a small shake of head and looked at him tiredly. "I'm just making a point." Somehow she knew what he was going to say next and she counteract that. "If you discuss it with mum and dad, it would be pointless. We've already had this discussion and they agree with me."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡHI8Z1lk2nE
"Huh." He slowly put his cutleries down and stared at her. If she didn't know any better, she would have thought he was amazed. But December knew that was never the case. Michael seemed affronted that she had one upped him this time.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡKdKP9fmmtC
She wondered what he was going to do and was mentally preparing herself to face it when he nodded and resume eating. "So they agree. Good for you." He said it nonchalantly. "Maybe you should move to London. You're too Americanised, although thank God you haven't forgotten your roots in your accent. I'm sure there's a good school for you. I'm also sure they would agree with me."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ02QqcJa6GC
What is with him and Americans?copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1olaomvJpT
December's indifferent expression almost cracked but with a practice that she had done so many times, she managed to school her expression to one of faint interest. "That would be a waste. I'm already in my last year of high school. Besides, I don't think it's wise to trouble our parents right now."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡna68ZfnmCQ
He chuckled mockingly. "What's this? You're concerned about money?"copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡYCTP26zddg
"I just don't want to bother them."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡQfFbp4xVNW
"Then let me do the bothering."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡOb6Vj6aHtN
Let me? Was he actually asking me for permission?copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡyspshszRGN
"As a matter of fact, I'm going to do just that. Just thought I'd tell you." He grinned, an evil glint in his eyes that December did not fail to notice.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7w2MIsQgnD
Of course.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡccPj79qiQT
There was no way she was going to leave for London or anywhere else when she's finally found a place to belong here. But things weren't getting better with the way they are right now. At this rate, Michael just might do what he planned to do. December needed to think of something, and fast. While there were times when he just liked to aggravate her for the fun of it, there were also times when he would go with the threat.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5pmvREYrvE
She didn't know any more if this was just for kicks but she wasn't up to take the risk.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡeCbgpTJg97
Beating down her panic, she said with a hint of forcefulness, "I prefer studying here. And there's only a few months left before I graduate."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡUmjJGrS6KJ
He tilted his head as if studying a rare species. Maybe she was one to go against someone like him. "Now why would I listen to you?"copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0P8nl01jrx
She blurted out without thinking any further. "Because I love it here. And you said it yourself, too. It's interesting. See for yourself and you'll know why." It wasn't until she said those words that she realized she could use that for her defense.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡXFa9Vz2FPc
"I could have lied when I said it earlier." He raised an eyebrow mockingly.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡMJz6tfxlmh
She stared at him in the eye. "Maybe but you have to admit there's a part of you that's also curious. As to why we haven't gone back to Bristol or London for years and stayed here."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4n7cKtcMMD
There it is. I've used that card. She didn't know if it'll work or not, though she hoped it will. He had to at least be a bit curious as to why they stayed here long, longer than they've stayed in Bristol, London, the initial place she had known called home or other places they've lived in. Besides, even though he's heartless, he couldn't possibly resist the charms of San Francisco, it bore some resemblance to their old home and he hadn't even been here before.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡjKjtTf2WUS
December pondered in anxiousness as Michael stared at her, long and hard – as if searching for any malice or manipulation that he thought only he was entitled to use towards other people – when he blinked and smiled, a hollow one regardless.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8GCHM5Xkqj
"Alright. We'll see if your words have any worth to it."copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡBvHJIsdVeZ
It wasn't until she went to her room after her late dinner that she exhaled a long sigh of relief.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡzxJS1D74z1
Agreeing to seeing San Francisco means he agree to me staying here and not bothering our parents, right?copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡWHHzptEmN5
Or so she kept telling herself. But December was quite certain that wouldn't be an issue – at the moment, at least. She was glad that card worked against him.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡGpAo9jQme5
Opening the window and letting the cold night air enter her room, she hugged her pillow on the bed. Her parents are probably flying to Norway now, and she was left here with her brother. I wonder how mum and dad are doing now. Norway, huh? Must be nice...copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡmNC5FEIMIi
Nicer than staying with Michael here, was what she thought bitterly.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡNFZvepZSMN
Even though he was quite agreeable tonight with her, she couldn't let down her guard. He could be unpredictable.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡYtczRmSIJ6
She rolled over on her bed, hugging the pillow to her chest closer and looked at the ceiling. Despite only being three days, she was glad her parents were home with her. "Too bad, it came with a baggage named August Michael." She scoffed to herself.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡN5Tqby4UlM
Since she had a guardian to look out for her now, she mentioned to him after dinner that she was going out tomorrow for something. He didn't seemed particularly interested because he was busy typing something on his laptop – and December was grateful for that. The lesser he was interested in her business, the better it was for her.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡc9scEGBDzo
As evil as he was, at least he had some normal moments like this. Still, she couldn't count on that – he was still a stranger to her, and the last time they met he was distant though he wouldn't pass up on the opportunity to verbally abuse her whenever he could. He hadn't changed now, but he wasn't as pestering as he was then.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡqxRD7J0ZrJ
She scoffed. Having this newfound realization does not excuse him for what he did to me then, nor does it justify his actions. I still hate him, she told herself vehemently.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5ePZE1yJVT
December only hoped that things would get better from here onwards.copyright protection117ＰＥＮＡＮＡw82YlHEWkd
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