Lahat ng Kabanata ng Punishing the wrong twin: Kabanata 1 - Kabanata 5

I wish I’d run and hidden in the library toilet the moment I saw our massive chauffeur approaching. If I had, I wouldn't be doomed to the fate I have to accept in a few short hours. I stood in my bathroom, staring at a box of hair dye that reeked of chemicals and ammonia. Outside the window, the elderly couple I’d come to see as my true parents were seated on their porch, waiting for the sun to rise. It was their morning ritual; sometimes I waited with them, sharing the peace of the dawn. That quiet life would never be mine again. Staying away from them was the only way to keep them safe from the shadow now falling over me. They noticed me and motioned for me to come over. When I tried to lift my legs, they felt like lead. Tears tracked down my cheeks. How was I supposed to tell them that in a few hours, I’d be someone else? That they’d never be allowed to see me again? No. I’d rather leave like a ghost and hope they remembered to take their medications on time. I turned to

Alexander’s grip was rough as he dragged me from the hall. I tried to cover myself with the tattered remnants of my gown, but it was useless. He hauled me into the limousine, the engine roaring like a caged beast, and we sped off before I could catch my breath. By the time we arrived at the Hawthorne estate, my chest was tight. The imposing walls and turrets screamed old money and lethal power. Inside, the white walls gleamed, lined with rare antiques and portraits that seemed to stare right through me. I tried to focus on the art, my usual escape when reality became too loud. This time beauty couldn't mask the fear underneath. He threw open the door to a guest room. It was small. Sterile. Smaller than my own apartment. A pang of disappointment hit me. Even the servants in my father’s mansion had rooms larger than this. “This isn’t your father’s mansion,” he said, his voice a calm. He didn't even look at me as he read my thoughts. “You’re nothing but a slave here.” The