HAYLEY.
I changed into my nightdress and went downstairs. I know mom loved cooking a lot and I got that hobby from her. I also loved spending time in the kitchen to prepare the most delicious meals. I went downstairs and everyone was already present at the dinning table. Their eyes were on me but Easton took his eyes off the moment mine landed on his. I pressed my lips together in slight anxiety. Are we ever going to get along? I wanted to avoid him because of the feelings I had for him but that doesn't mean we have to be sworn enemies.
I sat down. “Good evening Chris. Good evening Mom”
“Hope you liked your room, Hayley?” Chris asked in enthusiasm and I nodded.
“I loved it, Chris”
“You can call me Dad now. Is it still a bit hard for you to?” He asked and I made a little pout. It should be but I'm going to try..
“Not at all. Thanks for the room. I loved it” I replied with a reassuring smile.
“Your mom was kind enough to let me know the things you loved. We got them together. You should extend your gratitude to her too”
I diverted my gaze to mom, a smile on my face. “Thanks mom”
“You are welcome honey” She answered before resuming her sermon. “All I want from you now is to get along with your stepbrother Easton. That way he can help you with your assignments, teach you stuff and you both can get into a good college .... It isn't too much to ask for, is it, Hayley?” Mom’s gaze pierced through me and I bit my lips slowly, staring at her. Words failing to come through. Can she stop reminding everyone that I'm dumb and doesn't do well in class especially now that Easton is here. It's just so embarrassing.
Chris looked at me and pinched Mom’s hand slightly. “Tiana, Hayley must be embarrassed….” Chris muttered and Mom rolled her eyes. She is always sensitive when it comes to talking about my academics.
“Who cares? She can do better. I'm always so embarrassed when they call me to school because of her grades. I'm just worried about her future…” She replied with a carefree tone and I felt my cheeks burn in embarrassment. Easton must be feeling so high and mighty right now. What's special about being smart? I can do it too.
I clenched my fists beneath my skirt a bit.
“Let's eat..” Chris broke the heavy silence that lingered for a while and they all picked their cutlery while I hesitated for a while before joining in.
“Oh we forgot for a while, we will be going for our honeymoon tomorrow morning..So Easton, make sure you take good care of Hayley” Chris announced amidst the meal and I parted my lips for a moment. Honeymoon? Wait? I will be in this big house all alone with Easton!
“Ho ..ho…ney…moon?” I stuttered, blinking my eyes.
“Yes, Hayley. Any problem?” Mom's eyes quickly met mine..
“ No no” I answered immediately and I tried looking at Easton who was so deep-rooted in his meal.. I shook my head, shoving off the thoughts.. Nothing would happen, I can do it..
We ate for a while before retiring to our rooms..I slept off since I needed a lot of rest. The next day, I quickly took my shower and prepared for school. I didn't want to be late. I took out my clothes, a tank top and baggy jeans but after changing into these clothes and staring at the mirror. My chest region was so flat and Easton 's tone of mockery echoed in my brain as I decided to pull the tank top off but on a second thought, I decided to wear padded brassiere, it would make my t**s appear a bit bigger.
After preparing, I went downstairs, Mom was in the kitchen and Easton was on the table, having breakfast but Chris or my Dad was nowhere to be seen.
“Good morning Mom” I greeted and she flashed me a smile..
“Good morning, Hayley. Join Easton so that you both can leave for school.” She instructed and I nodded.
I gently took my seat and Easton didn't say a word to me but continued eating. I picked the sandwich and took a bite from it as Easton stood up, turning to face my Mom.
“Thanks Mrs Tiana. I think I will take my leave. I hate going late for school.” He muttered and made a low bow..
“Oh really? Wait for Hayley so you both can go together.”
Easton glanced at his watch and shook his head in disapproval. “Oh no, I hate going late for school. I have things to do..” He replied curtly.
He began walking off as Mom signalled me to go after him. I blinked, trying to shove the remaining sandwich into my mouth as fast as I could. Mom doesn't understand that Easton wants nothing to do with me..
I hastily ran after him while chewing the last bite..
Easton moved outside and I followed him. He walked towards his car and I tagged along..
He opened his car door and I walked over to the front seat to open the car door.
“What are you doing?” Easton started in a cold tone.
“Aren't we… going to the same school?” I asked slowly, avoiding his gaze.
“I don't give a f**k about that. Find your way to school. Who says you can come with me? ” He asked, his voice devoid of emotions with those green eyes fixed on me.
“That's because…..” I began but words weren't coming forth.. I feel like I'm going to faint.
“You better not go about telling people that we are step siblings. I don't want to be seen together with you ....”He uttered rudely and entered into his car, driving off. I stood confused and lost for a while..I couldn't even say anything or think straight. He doesn't want people to know we are step siblings? Is this because I'm dumb? Is it because he thinks I'm not up to his standards? Because I don't belong in the class of people he hangs out with?
My heart tightened and I felt tears lingering around my eyes. He is such an asshole. Who the hell did he think he was?!