The sound of an airplane whizzing above the roof in the sky was her alarm clock.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡVfEPuOuynZ 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡWhrm9lKd9b 維尼
December thought it was a good night's sleep, despite the slight meltdown last night.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡmR1HDVEjAs 維尼
She sighed when last night's memories flitted across her mind and groaned to herself. I can't keep letting this get to me.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡEIUUghTsDq 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡeiBMKo6pyA 維尼
"Come in." December said mindlessly as she tried to tuck the sheets back in its place.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡx9KsqrZUxV 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡRgZWNAobQ0 維尼
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."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡsTXEWmm3ZB 維尼
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?"8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2rdjCkphSd 維尼
Thinking it was an innocent question all parents asked, she smiled and nodded, "Yes, I did."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡgcJ8QtriLe 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡwB8gEPwVz9 維尼
"Mum, is something wrong?"8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3rJ5o0vZHs 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡfsq5wtbUGT 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9ZMiLaK5Ka 維尼
It was very pale and…was her eyes red and puffy?8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡfetx36UlTk 維尼
Wait.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡBzG8Kv8Flb 維尼
Was that why her mum asked her if she had slept well?8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡjl6G5v0Mdy 維尼
Or did she found out about yesterday –8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡyRZlWtrZSC 維尼
No.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡeK8wEsO4nk 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡXari5fiQZo 維尼
At least mum was right about something; I was exhausted.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡdlY0K61qGA 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡkqGtq8mTtN 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡFyaBbusRwM 維尼
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?"8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡvjA2JkxPM1 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡUwsH6SfmgA 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡLIHhDB5TPU 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡWbbSRrubgH 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡNMWmt2QxgN 維尼
"But it won't be for another two more days. Until then we can still…"8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡDXSTkKZs9J 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡM7JSmS08qt 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡarboWFQ4Sw 維尼
"…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."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0IlgccGzlu 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6MwTGCXgCv 維尼
She froze. If she were drinking, December had no doubt she would have spluttered her drink.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡTqRossS28n 維尼
"What?" She yelled.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡTlncOKd8sf 維尼
Taken aback by their daughter's outburst, they could only stare at her in bewilderment; her mother raised an eyebrow at her.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8Q7AJruGI0 維尼
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?"8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4PQedEda66 維尼
Please. Say no. Say that he isn't.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡqaPhCJYRlQ 維尼
"Yes." Her father smiled.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡf7vEI5gxqF 維尼
No!8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡn3O9E6ssTQ 維尼
Her face must have looked pale because her mother looked at her in concern and went to her side. "Darling, are you alright?"8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5tVQIrjxfy 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡt4pzmQFwGi 維尼
Because that's the thing; she wasn't fine.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡVKnd6JhmPC 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡjdwbmsa6w7 維尼
Taking a deep breath and exhaling it, she murmured, "I see."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡjjW4LHwXS9 維尼
Her father then asked, "You're okay, sweetheart? You scared us there."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡhqPWiqNCLq 維尼
December forced a smile. "Sorry. I think I was still tired." She lied.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡViKLlEGPBe 維尼
December then said, "Doesn't he have that thesis or something? Maybe he needs to go back."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡlxc1LFN2P6 維尼
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?"8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡi0eErs6UxI 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡgB5bznfSJ9 維尼
"That settles it, then!" Her mother clasped her hands in utter delight.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡP4iadhT1dQ 維尼
She couldn't stand being there with all of them in her brother's presence so she excused herself.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡbcPXFGnT7Z 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡtJs79T7Vxr 維尼
Disappointed, wounded, and frustrated, she stomped up the stairs to her room, feeling a bit of satisfaction at that rebel act despite being ignored.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡim9UMP6DzU 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡImAaUAbbee 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡgVEOIwi4b6 維尼
On the contrary, it seemed now that she wasn't in the picture of this family considering how she was completely disregard earlier.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡzzAOnh1YL5 維尼
She sighed. I need to take my mind off of these!8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡOipBJa8dnW 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡtcKzJn6yBa 維尼
No, as far as I know, only the guys, Ramona, and Piper went back home, or are preparing to.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6wClyqwKlO 維尼
But still…8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡya5Zmmsqb8 維尼
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!8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡAxvTSFI6HU 維尼
And she had to deal with her Satan brother!8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡvQc0O4maRq 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0CUOoPOkKP 維尼
Well, at least the weather seemed to agree with me.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡCrEK5Egrwx 維尼
The moment she knew it, it had been three days since she left her dorm and stayed at her family's residence.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2O9yagf4eK 維尼
And the first day she would be living with Michael as her guardian since her parents were going away.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡcbdFUpYvmT 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡxHrDe5ySQ3 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡv5EMIZvN6F 維尼
She decided she'd announced herself to them just when her parents simultaneously nodded at themselves as they checked everything.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡHYgTysK0Ti 維尼
"So today's the day, huh."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ55jI5PFCCm 維尼
Okay, so she was still bitter that they're going away, but December couldn't help it.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡaDhYog1xSb 維尼
Startled, December's mother flashed a small smile at her daughter. "Darling, try to understand. If we could stay, we would have."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡy6s3Zxg1vz 維尼
Try to understand? I have always done that, she scoffed mentally.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡdBw2gZYXrM 維尼
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."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡuX9jYzGVzl 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡa1UIiaRW6m 維尼
Besides, it wouldn't make a difference; she tried before but it never had.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡBbYh1HbZr4 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡW0JDkSPjWq 維尼
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."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5BnyQ5mJEb 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡvV9BjCyWJc 維尼
She hugged both her parents tightly and watched them entered the cab, waving at them until they were out from her view.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2oRAYM6S8g 維尼
Desperately seeking her room now, she turned back and let out a short scream.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡOyXNuJDdMO 維尼
"Why do you always creep behind me?" Sadness forgotten, her anger and wariness resurfaced at the sight of Michael.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0h0Llu7R4x 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡu7ZuLc2vvy 維尼
Michael smiled his usual devilish grin. "I wasn't."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡdc6IKzkftl 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡrCuXxOj3J1 維尼
"Are you going out?"8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡcv8cPTcvpT 維尼
"Do you want me to?"8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡm2mrUnbiem 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡwNqQLqgCRH 維尼
But there was always a price to pay when it seemed that she had gone too far with him.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡDPPvEt3v00 維尼
Like now.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡqgJqvZ1fQH 維尼
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."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡKXDuxqpWQT 維尼
She took a deep breath. December thought this could not go on any longer. She simply couldn't stand for it.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡeMeM0EFxj6 維尼
Clenching her shaky fists tightly, she took another deep breath and looked him in the eye.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡkd2lJJKXhE 維尼
"No."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡBDSId21xvR 維尼
Michael raised his eyebrow challengingly at her, pushing the door shut behind December with his hand. She gulped inaudibly.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡHEPWHPRfnE 維尼
"What did you say again?" He asked quietly. A quiet rage brewed in his stormy eyes.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡzCCrINq7N6 維尼
No backing away now. What else can he – yeah, okay better not push my luck. Still, I need to woman up.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡp87BHoeB59 維尼
"I said no." She replied quietly, and damned if her voice didn't have that slight quiver to it.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡgr9MlkobnE 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡUKB7DXnLKq 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡq8BUCVKhjP 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡFIRSPCJP5e 維尼
"Huh. You've been living away for far too long. The American culture has rubbed off on you."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡxXACP7nOyw 維尼
December found herself feeling dumbfounded. Now what bull is this?8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡhfUFrYq7lx 維尼
"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?8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡrlvfak97On 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡhQypH6uEUv 維尼
December didn't want to think of the possibility of having her freedom to express herself being stripped away from her again.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡBbAn6R5euk 維尼
"Enough." She gritted her teeth.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡyJ8cUxsnQT 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1v3pUtdkTb 維尼
Liar. "That's not true!" She protested. "I'll…I'll tell them." Her voice was beginning to quaver but she held herself.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡuZuKUmza2u 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡAaZGuHHhEK 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡtNKA1vQWXI 維尼
It was like she was letting him win again, and she knew he had.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡVsb0DL9Rhf 維尼
"I hate you." She seethed at him, a tear slipped on her cheek but she was too distraught to even care.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡkW39607wq0 維尼
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?"8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡZEwn4vumGT 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡXzHqVYXxf7 維尼
"You're mental!" She yelled, not caring if she looked like a blubbering mess.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡfc2xVHGRGL 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ96mBO9YYRr 維尼
"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."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡoJIaDuh0kW 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡsNETFXMwk4 維尼
She hated him, truly, utterly hated him.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡfP0CTcoz41 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡGn44YHyBad 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡrpvXjpN3L3 維尼
But she realized she was also to blame.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡPZ39NCITxW 維尼
If only she had been strong enough to not let him get to her…8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡP0eayaSO36 維尼
…8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡxQ6xcIzdlb 維尼
…8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡzi7LKVFLer 維尼
…it seemed impossible for a weakling her, but she was determined.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡpdFdl6ayg4 維尼
December was determined to make a change, because she was exhausted of being pathetic.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡQla9xF88wd 維尼
Somehow, she just had to, even if it would kill her.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8ttQvh8FmJ 維尼
That night, she decided to come out of her room and face the demon.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡfVUuuoTOWx 維尼
She heard him come home and from the sound of the television downstairs, was sure he was lounging in the living room.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡT9VfMQDEhp 維尼
Composing a neutral, unaffected look, she glanced at him as she came down stairs before heading towards the kitchen.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡAIgchcPTvQ 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡHoTScKwIEU 維尼
"Is that lasagna I smell? Get one for me too!"8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0XyzNI75ao 維尼
She rolled her eyes and muttered vehemently to herself, "How about no?"8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡDhGjG0OIel 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡqkGHRllmR6 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡanea6jAWh6 維尼
"Here." She said indifferently.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡnUu6A7HvHI 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡgL4S3fbJG0 維尼
"Where are you going?"8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡE3oQbXSS5I 維尼
"Upstairs?" She answered casually with a hint of sassy. He didn't seemed to take notice of that.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡmsThEq0rh9 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡUG5uRuNIph 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡo4D6goLnCN 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡDhy617rNwS 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡQHhZ4TXicy 維尼
"From now on, it's best that you stay at home and go to school from here."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡlEEmOmNwlV 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡRVPjpbqveW 維尼
"It's one hour away from here."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡmWhJ3k2c90 維尼
"Then, wake up early."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡOUZdSID4qq 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡQyhZyG7NRw 維尼
He narrowed his eyes at her and said quietly. "Are you talking back against me?"8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡMXitcGZITV 維尼
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."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡmMZUEzdG1y 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡeLNAjXeo94 維尼
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."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1HoCuCKG2c 維尼
What is with him and Americans?8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡi8uxKrK3A7 維尼
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."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡBQ0aT8bPPc 維尼
He chuckled mockingly. "What's this? You're concerned about money?"8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1wuE5RY03w 維尼
"I just don't want to bother them."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡSpUtCzrwWw 維尼
"Then let me do the bothering."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡaMi3unKVtY 維尼
Let me? Was he actually asking me for permission?8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡpqcZxeAXGn 維尼
"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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡFCFnBQXanr 維尼
Of course.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡWwMDRE38hT 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9QauHIrbHn 維尼
She didn't know any more if this was just for kicks but she wasn't up to take the risk.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡjReDndpSAR 維尼
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."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡfk7pC36kll 維尼
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?"8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡbr8HCGmIBw 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡjxcgfknNr3 維尼
"I could have lied when I said it earlier." He raised an eyebrow mockingly.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡDFm3QlRBAh 維尼
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."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡZsiI0eX8hU 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡR12iTa0uST 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡsNQrj86J9j 維尼
"Alright. We'll see if your words have any worth to it."8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡglLPnq8GFs 維尼
It wasn't until she went to her room after her late dinner that she exhaled a long sigh of relief.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡNHLTKiFjkW 維尼
Agreeing to seeing San Francisco means he agree to me staying here and not bothering our parents, right?8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡhsQkooblRS 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡHzeZAGwHBJ 維尼
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...8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡKi3HugJaN2 維尼
Nicer than staying with Michael here, was what she thought bitterly.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡojkio2gIw2 維尼
Even though he was quite agreeable tonight with her, she couldn't let down her guard. He could be unpredictable.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡWlkE9wd2Bg 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡTyhpQtyH7x 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡiIZ3hktcPQ 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡcaswsMnrEJ 維尼
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.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡmzOhVWK0b3 維尼
December only hoped that things would get better from here onwards.8964 copyright protection461ＰＥＮＡＮＡvzbbKGcfC9 維尼
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