Chapter 8
In the tense atmosphere, the SATs were over before I knew it. Despite being raised in this kind of family for 18 years, I wasn’t cut out for academics, and my test scores were so bad that getting into even a community college seemed like a stretch. On the other hand, Lily performed brilliantly, got accepted into one of the top universities, and was even invited to visit. Mom and Dad were thrilled, and even James showed a bit
of admiration for her.
For the first time, I truly felt a pang of envy toward her. I had no idea what path my future would take in this world, especially if the bizarre plot twists kept happening. I didn’t know how to move forward in life with any kind of happiness or stability.
As I pondered my future, Samuel surprisingly came to visit me. He showed up with review materials and sat in my living room while Mom smiled and poured him some coffee.
“You didn’t do so well on the test,” she said. “Are you planning to retake it?”
I gave a nervous laugh. Lily, standing nearby, couldn’t resist mocking me.
“She’s never been good at studying. She’s definitely not going to retake it,” she said dismissively.
Then Lily shot me a contemptuous look and started thinking to herself. “If I calculate the time right, James‘ racing finals are coming up soon. She’ll be too busy sabotaging his race. Even though she pretended to give her blood, James is still going to die in the end.”
As soon as those words left her mind, the entire atmosphere in the room went cold.
I shook my head and politely turned down Samuel’s offer. “Thanks, Samuel, but I’m not going to retake it. It would just be a waste of time for
me.”
That was when Mom spoke up, her voice full of concern. “So, what are you going to do then? Are you going to watch James‘ final race?”
I wanted to shake my head, but for some reason, my body wouldn’t obey. I couldn’t even speak. All I could do was give them a helpless smile.
That smile sent a chill through the room. It felt as though I had just become a grim reaper, silently declaring James‘ fate.
Mom’s eyes reddened, and James lowered his head in silence. The room was heavy with unspoken thoughts.
