Part 2Scales and Whispers

As soon as we got in the car, Mom hugged me and kissed my cheek. "Yay! I finally have a daughter!"

Dad chuckled as he drove. "Hehe, finally don't have to stare at that bratty son all day."

My face burned. I didn't dare look at them.

Mom... smelled so good.

Their house was huge. Beautiful.

The housekeeper had a table full of food ready. It was still steaming when we arrived.

Sitting at the table was a boy in a white shirt. His features were as exquisite as a painting.

Mom and Dad happily pulled me forward to introduce us.

The boy glanced at me indifferently, then stood up without a word and went upstairs.

The floating text got lively.

[The Male Lead is definitely disappointed. The side character is nothing like the sister he wanted.]

[He wanted a cute, bubbly girl like Chibi Maruko-chan.]

[This girl is too gloomy. She looks like she's scheming.]

[The parents are busy and don't have time for him. The house is already cold enough.]

[Finally gets a sister, and she's a mute. Of course he's disappointed.]

I froze.

My chest felt tight, my eyes stung.

It... it's okay...

Afraid of crying and upsetting Mom and Dad, I held it back desperately.

It's normal for a brother to want a better sister...

I understand.

Mom patted my head apologetically. "Brother has always been shy. Don't mind him, Penny. It'll be better once you get to know each other."

Dad said angrily, "So rude. I'll teach him a lesson later. Penny, are you hungry? Let's eat first."

Mom added, "Yeah, look, are there any dishes you like?"

I looked up and forced a smile at them.

Mom and Dad were really gentle...

Even if I get sent back later, I want to cherish every day with them.