Chapter~5

ELI: 

It was bad enough that my father insisted I follow him to his girlfriend's place.

I wanted to stay home and rest properly before it was time for the party but he had to spoil my plans. And the worst part, I couldn't do anything about it. 

He was my father, my provider, and everything in between. I hated myself for having to rely on such a control freak. 

But it was more terrible finding out Frosty was going to be my stepsister. I would rather slit my throat and die than call her 'sister'. 

"Honey, why don't you take a shower and come out for dinner?" Her mother said. She still hadn't broken her gaze from mine. She was as surprised as I was. Fate really hated me. A controlling father. A condescending brother. A fake would-be step-sister. It was all too much for one person. 

Frosty stormed out of the dining room. She probably wasn't going to come out of her room until we left, which was totally fine by me. It wasn't that I liked seeing her around. 

"This world is really such a small place," My father chuckled richly. If I hadn't known him for years, I would have been misled, just like the poor woman he was deceiving. "To think that our children actually know each other." He looked at him, almost proudly. 

I felt disgusted again. Why can't people just be who they are both inside and outside? Why put up a front that is not you? 

Unlike my analysis, Frosty actually came back, changed, and smelled like citrus. It overshadowed the scent of the food, intentionally clouding my thoughts. How could someone's perfume have this much influence on me? She wasn't even sitting close to me. 

I noticed she was dressed like she wanted to go out, not the usual pyjamas for sleeping. 

Where was she going to be by this time? Shouldn't she be studying or sleeping? Last I checked, she slept off in class. 

"So, honey," Her mother started, looking a bit nervous. Of course, it wasn't always easy introducing your partner to your children. "This is Peter Rayes, the one I've been telling you about." 

"Oh," She raised her head to look at my father. "It's nice to meet you, sir." She was polite. Way too polite. It was almost like 'You're just my mother's boyfriend and you have no place in my life.' 

"It's an honor to meet the man who has been making my mother smile." A small smile touched her lips. But I could tell it was forced and she was only playing along because of her family. 

"I've heard great things about you, Frieda. The presentations, the awards, the projects. You are truly an ideal daughter." He complimented her.

So, her full name was Frieda. Too long. I'd rather stick to Frosty. 

"It's great having an older brother. My sister scolds me all the time," Damien said, earning himself a glare from Frosty.  

"But you won't, right?" 

"Of course not. I'll be the coolest big brother ever." I replied. It seemed to have sparked a reaction from Frosty. I was enjoying the scowl on her face. 

"I didn't know Eli was your son. I've been hearing about him. He and Frieda are the top two in their school." Her mother, whose name is Julie, said. "It's amazing having two smart people around." 

"Yes, and wait till my eldest son gets back. He'll be coming around next month or so for a break. You'll love him as much as Eli." My father's eyes always lit up whenever he spoke about Asher. 

"He's a medical doctor in the United States, a neurologist." 

I couldn't stand it anymore. I wanted to leave. 

"I'm sorry to have broken this lovely family dinner but Mom, I promised Chloe I'd go out with her." She looked at her mother. 

"Oh, right. The party... But do you really have to go? You've been working all week." Julie looked worried. 

Working? Doesn't she mean studying? 

"She won't be alone. Eli is also going to the party, right?" All except Frosty looked at me. I reluctantly nodded. 

"Rest assured that my son will watch over her. He's quite capable." 

Oh no! Now I'm on babysitting duty! How did I get into this mess?! 

"That won't be necessary. I can take care of myself." 

Glad I wasn't the only one who didn't want the arrangement to work. What do you mean I have to go with her? How would people see me? 

"Come on, Frieda. You can trust him. After all, we're going to be one big family soon. You two should use this opportunity to get along more." 

I would rather stuff carrots down my throat than know more of Frosty. What I knew about her was enough. 

"Fine." She rolled her eyes, got up, and left. I, after thanking Julie for the meal, also got up and walked out with my car key. Frosty was standing on the porch, reluctantly waiting for me. 

"Let's just get this over with," She folded her arms, waiting for me to lead the way. I walked to my car and she followed suit, opening the door and getting comfortable. 

We both kept mute as I drove us to the venue. From the side of my eyes, I could see her hugging herself and shivering. 

"What idiot goes for an all-night party wearing a short gown without a jacket or leggings?" I asked rhetorically. 

"Mind your business, Rayes. Who said anything about being cold?"

If I could blindfold my eyes, I would. She was very cold and yet, wouldn't ask for help. 

Tough but proud. 

I took a spare jacket that was in the back seat and tossed it on her leg. 

"Use it if you please. If not, keep it back." I simply said. If she dropped it, that was her business. I was too proud to beg someone to make use of something they actually need. 

She draped the jacket over her shoulder, after about thirty seconds of mindlessly staring at it. 

A smirk found its way to my lips. 

 She still hadn't thanked me for saving her arse back at the storage room, or for lending her my notebook. And now, I was giving her my jacket. 

Three nice things in a day. I must be losing my touch. 

What was I going to do next?