The sound of an airplane whizzing above the roof in the sky was her alarm clock.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡSnWTD8tSgW
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡQ4XOovNU07
December thought it was a good night's sleep, despite the slight meltdown last night.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡd0j3SengYo
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡhQMeKpmdhC
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡa8G8W5DJZD
"Come in." December said mindlessly as she tried to tuck the sheets back in its place.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡQcD9gwoDNm
"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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ24dOiYeEbv
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡhmDYuA37j2
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡKafokvUI8H
Thinking it was an innocent question all parents asked, she smiled and nodded, "Yes, I did."copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5bMjZ4hdJt
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ1PnZjX2qh
"Mum, is something wrong?"copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5brkzLQtuY
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡbzaXT92anM
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡD6OttNMrQd
It was very pale and…was her eyes red and puffy?copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡIWo9hXV7rq
Wait.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6D0gBTpE3N
Was that why her mum asked her if she had slept well?copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡqHTean2XOT
Or did she found out about yesterday –copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡbxPAH6xCdZ
No.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3jC3AdWZR0
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡNiIGxT4AQS
At least mum was right about something; I was exhausted.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡt2qjC7paKD
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9NXMQx0NxS
"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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡNkbw1Jp5jf
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡYNio6Uvv4f
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9e360TD1Hb
"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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡTvv41wNqB7
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡGAUYY0TuwX
"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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡJFbMLcGodo
"But it won't be for another two more days. Until then we can still…"copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡA6T5bVCZld
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ62O11M1Ugx
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡR0c3NYfuns
"…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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡSXyM2KHEJ3
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡSQ5GR6tT0K
She froze. If she were drinking, December had no doubt she would have spluttered her drink.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡrSKDVyBa2Z
"What?" She yelled.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡCVWbHYVoDF
Taken aback by their daughter's outburst, they could only stare at her in bewilderment; her mother raised an eyebrow at her.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡsvwxcoEFhF
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡqIyamtJYEM
Please. Say no. Say that he isn't.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡXgHTsoSnNv
"Yes." Her father smiled.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3f1zNeXsUf
No!copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8kXGvk9eiN
Her face must have looked pale because her mother looked at her in concern and went to her side. "Darling, are you alright?"copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0f4H9w61UU
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡxXayxYMvqG
Because that's the thing; she wasn't fine.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡKy1Iew2oKk
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡbLAgsJMzLG
Taking a deep breath and exhaling it, she murmured, "I see."copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡtiEDQcCDH2
Her father then asked, "You're okay, sweetheart? You scared us there."copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡkrBlaQRceC
December forced a smile. "Sorry. I think I was still tired." She lied.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡxqn8GQRtpD
December then said, "Doesn't he have that thesis or something? Maybe he needs to go back."copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡaTVOxM09qI
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡcKaN6kDYwS
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡB4iYcZP4se
"That settles it, then!" Her mother clasped her hands in utter delight.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡHC8CrFpsPP
She couldn't stand being there with all of them in her brother's presence so she excused herself.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡa1AkPGFtFb
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡlggDfsC4x5
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡjeHrR97gCX
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5MZF7OmMh2
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡYDiegxHTBe
On the contrary, it seemed now that she wasn't in the picture of this family considering how she was completely disregard earlier.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡYVtGmkQuBs
She sighed. I need to take my mind off of these!copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡrGfqmnfJax
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡL8a4nrB5kd
No, as far as I know, only the guys, Ramona, and Piper went back home, or are preparing to.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡkj8N0v8Q0J
But still…copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡjrqySNV7x5
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡEieOnCfZIA
And she had to deal with her Satan brother!copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡc2TlQTRZKR
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ3jaBbXxiu
Well, at least the weather seemed to agree with me.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡDXNSLav19d
The moment she knew it, it had been three days since she left her dorm and stayed at her family's residence.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡBmgvI7pA69
And the first day she would be living with Michael as her guardian since her parents were going away.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡsPdLZPWXmf
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡs0cfTYqo0A
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡBBXS7GZwh6
She decided she'd announced herself to them just when her parents simultaneously nodded at themselves as they checked everything.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡGJVTuVIrT5
"So today's the day, huh."copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡHl5UBYS2nS
Okay, so she was still bitter that they're going away, but December couldn't help it.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡDYuARChQ8y
Startled, December's mother flashed a small smile at her daughter. "Darling, try to understand. If we could stay, we would have."copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡWOhSIMOqeH
Try to understand? I have always done that, she scoffed mentally.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡvV3BPEAHHX
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡAkW5VNHcEQ
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡLAF3tnQiO4
Besides, it wouldn't make a difference; she tried before but it never had.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0jZ3VOIvwp
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡs7KodFbVSP
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡLEqqHUOycC
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡCdWCgRrZmY
She hugged both her parents tightly and watched them entered the cab, waving at them until they were out from her view.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡpO69djOoeH
Desperately seeking her room now, she turned back and let out a short scream.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡe0lEr3zgBM
"Why do you always creep behind me?" Sadness forgotten, her anger and wariness resurfaced at the sight of Michael.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡSeZPRgHif3
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡhESnN6HCuW
Michael smiled his usual devilish grin. "I wasn't."copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡjJWFooIXEk
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡJxzImqY3Ie
"Are you going out?"copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ70S0nG64jB
"Do you want me to?"copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0DkXiIl1FZ
"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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡmpxV8Tl7X4
But there was always a price to pay when it seemed that she had gone too far with him.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡl44e5sVbwe
Like now.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡMxR6uaOPbu
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡPxTmt1gO8d
She took a deep breath. December thought this could not go on any longer. She simply couldn't stand for it.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡTuiYInqDyX
Clenching her shaky fists tightly, she took another deep breath and looked him in the eye.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡSluJrYTgO5
"No."copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡKDDEZ6GfVP
Michael raised his eyebrow challengingly at her, pushing the door shut behind December with his hand. She gulped inaudibly.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡtOjLN28eGH
"What did you say again?" He asked quietly. A quiet rage brewed in his stormy eyes.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡby2GiuEcKs
No backing away now. What else can he – yeah, okay better not push my luck. Still, I need to woman up.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡhv6Ua60QmV
"I said no." She replied quietly, and damned if her voice didn't have that slight quiver to it.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡGPKZAy2JMI
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡrYgtEzYiLI
"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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡL2eRXpYYgk
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡUW9EWKdYuZ
"Huh. You've been living away for far too long. The American culture has rubbed off on you."copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡGVXXpCwnVh
December found herself feeling dumbfounded. Now what bull is this?copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6GklyhKwg0
"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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡQaW0PSK2Qf
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1xaZuAB1Xx
December didn't want to think of the possibility of having her freedom to express herself being stripped away from her again.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡi4dDpMV9jb
"Enough." She gritted her teeth.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ99l6aaZVcP
"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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡaenleRVQTT
Liar. "That's not true!" She protested. "I'll…I'll tell them." Her voice was beginning to quaver but she held herself.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡnbYBPnnKwG
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡWGQhN1sMWF
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡC6UZs8RoZK
It was like she was letting him win again, and she knew he had.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡimWgYLDmwa
"I hate you." She seethed at him, a tear slipped on her cheek but she was too distraught to even care.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3sRTKEUcqR
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡS3YM2qUUOU
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡE6gBmfn0BT
"You're mental!" She yelled, not caring if she looked like a blubbering mess.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡaEm1y6Ftj6
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡkb9iXcIS6x
"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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡMLE3m1iJ1T
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡDbyZd65Tzo
She hated him, truly, utterly hated him.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡZTz8cwlVpr
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡsbc7ey8xi9
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡrVlZVz50sE
But she realized she was also to blame.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡoryYAKvVFU
If only she had been strong enough to not let him get to her…copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡn86zgl8oSr
…copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡyjnUiitoiW
…copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3HnBGYmbU2
…it seemed impossible for a weakling her, but she was determined.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6hbdRryZPr
December was determined to make a change, because she was exhausted of being pathetic.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡroLOj36Mso
Somehow, she just had to, even if it would kill her.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡJv666M5tYZ
That night, she decided to come out of her room and face the demon.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡv5hGi87Q8X
She heard him come home and from the sound of the television downstairs, was sure he was lounging in the living room.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡhzm2nF6tsz
Composing a neutral, unaffected look, she glanced at him as she came down stairs before heading towards the kitchen.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡSb4YibLnEJ
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡn9PEP7MXXU
"Is that lasagna I smell? Get one for me too!"copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡVfthiQXpkp
She rolled her eyes and muttered vehemently to herself, "How about no?"copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡYcB2aTdWhS
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡGE1viRC5PA
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0KQu28kZyE
"Here." She said indifferently.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡowRZz2TNYa
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡFEPHa7yMdo
"Where are you going?"copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡnd8dHbm2aU
"Upstairs?" She answered casually with a hint of sassy. He didn't seemed to take notice of that.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡHzqyzZBsNz
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡDses9pAIbN
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7z1gMJr8MB
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2tat2JtDcg
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡdPJshTRRC3
"From now on, it's best that you stay at home and go to school from here."copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡFJCHZprqyd
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2BHc4KWyo8
"It's one hour away from here."copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡPBXy4fsW74
"Then, wake up early."copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡZNOCuO1Wfz
"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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9hbQufAqNY
He narrowed his eyes at her and said quietly. "Are you talking back against me?"copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡzCAxbFMDBU
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡIAHwdclf8A
"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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡPiR09mfJN3
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡImGjTSYGvA
What is with him and Americans?copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡBebjLov6DE
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡGsXys6VIQI
He chuckled mockingly. "What's this? You're concerned about money?"copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡLy4sSYkRFQ
"I just don't want to bother them."copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡrg4CAP16VE
"Then let me do the bothering."copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡKC7HbzN6iD
Let me? Was he actually asking me for permission?copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡO4cTw5SRXx
"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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡHoOL1oB2ux
Of course.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡHf9OXloLrG
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡpgKC9hH18E
She didn't know any more if this was just for kicks but she wasn't up to take the risk.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡzP3oB5Nc8i
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡKPxUDvf1gH
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡIGXsi6K08S
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡFHII6jOTwW
"I could have lied when I said it earlier." He raised an eyebrow mockingly.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡbgLJbpfqrv
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ79b4Cubmuj
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡf91XS7hG1N
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡCd4oWfNcGf
"Alright. We'll see if your words have any worth to it."copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡHNoTS1o3oS
It wasn't until she went to her room after her late dinner that she exhaled a long sigh of relief.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡnD2oBUwSAx
Agreeing to seeing San Francisco means he agree to me staying here and not bothering our parents, right?copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡGdKLBH1pTH
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡEBu3vn5Tqt
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡMO7OcJIJCj
Nicer than staying with Michael here, was what she thought bitterly.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡgjw148J5xD
Even though he was quite agreeable tonight with her, she couldn't let down her guard. He could be unpredictable.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡMcehgKElE5
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡPqTXe6GXPj
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡg6CN7GWRMu
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡuyGJQXtvi8
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 protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡA8yu5NAMLp
December only hoped that things would get better from here onwards.copyright protection207ＰＥＮＡＮＡ62vIPDpLvb
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