Chapter 2

In my previous life, I was a girl who knew exactly how to play innocently while hiding her claws.

Honestly, before I became one, I hated those girls myself.

But later I realized, if I played the part and married into a rich family, life would be so much easier.

So I used all the money I'd saved up over the years to get plastic surgery, a boob job, and even signed up for a socialite finishing school.

Just when I was about to graduate and make my grand entrance into high society, I got into a car accident.

Why did good people always get the short end of the stick? If I'd known, I would've just saved that money for my little siblings.

But at least it wasn't a total waste. Everything I picked up at finishing school ended up being pretty useful to the Clark family.

*****

The next day, my parents came back and found me. They caught me crashing in Wendy's room.

Dad gave me a sharp look. "Wendy is the daughter we've raised since she was little. Just because you're back doesn't mean you can replace her. How could you just take over her room?"

Mom, on the other hand, was much gentler. "Grayson, that's enough. Last night was an emergency, we didn't have time to sort anything out. Melissa probably had no idea what was going on."

I knew exactly what was going on.

My lips quivered, tears streaming down my face. "Mom, Dad, it's all my fault.

"Yesterday, when Wendy jumped from the second floor, I was so scared. I know you must have been worried sick.

"I just didn't want something like that to happen again, so I moved into the room where it happened.

"I didn't realize you'd get the wrong idea. I'll move out right away."

Mom quickly grabbed my hand. "Poor thing, you're so scared. Melissa was just thinking of Wendy. It's just a misunderstanding."

Dad's expression softened. "Thanks for reminding me. Wendy really can't bring herself to stay in that room now."

I looked at him with tears in my eyes. "Dad, since Wendy doesn't want the room, can I have it?"

Dad's eyes softened with a hint of pity. He cleared his throat, but didn't say anything.

Mom looked like she'd made up her mind. "Melissa, Wendy really can't take any more drama right now. Your dad, your brother, and I all think it's best if you stay somewhere else for a while. Once Wendy's come to terms with everything, we'll have you back home."

Wait, what? If I didn't start bonding with my family now, I'd be grown up before I even got the chance.

I lowered my head, biting my lip as tears dripped onto the floor. "Getting to see my real parents again in this life is honestly the luckiest thing that ever happened to me.

"I know I haven't been there for you growing up, and I'm sorry for that. I'm grateful you had Wendy to be there for you when I couldn't.

"Back at the orphanage, I was so scared of being bullied that I once jumped off the second floor myself. So I get why Wendy felt so desperate."

I looked up at my parents, my eyes all red and watery. They just stood there, stunned. I said, "I really envy Wendy. She's got you both loving her, looking out for her.

"After all that despair, she still has hope. But back then, there was nothing for me to hold onto."

"Wait," I muttered, hurriedly wiping away my tears. "Why am I saying all this? If Wendy doesn't want me here, I'll move out right now."

With that, I started to gather my things.

Not that I actually had anything to pack. I just wanted Mom and Dad to see how thoughtful their real daughter was.

And yet, it was the adopted daughter who was making the real one leave.

Sure enough, Mom started sobbing and pulled me into her arms. "My poor Melissa.

"Now that I really think about it, we've been separated from our own flesh and blood for over ten years. How could I possibly let you leave again?"

Dad looked thoughtful. "We've been so focused on Wendy, but you're our real daughter, Melissa. You stay right here. I'll go talk to Wendy and sort things out."

I nodded obediently, playing the part of the sensible daughter.

And just like that, I officially moved into the big room on the second floor.

To make sure Wendy didn't try to hurt herself again, I suggested she move to the small room downstairs, the one with just a tiny window for ventilation.

Mom frowned. "Will Wendy be okay with that?"

I started gently massaging her back. "Wendy's only a few months younger than me, so she should understand how hard this is for you and Dad.

"If she really can't accept it, I'll just trade rooms with her. We don't want people thinking we're picking on the adopted daughter."

Mom looked genuinely moved and patted my hand. "I never thought you'd be so thoughtful, Melissa."

I hugged her from behind, nuzzling her. "Guess I just got lucky with your genes."

Mom looked really pleased with my answer and even gave me a kiss on the cheek. I kissed her back.

For the rest of the afternoon, Mom and I were just like any other mother and daughter, getting all close and affectionate.

Honestly, I should thank Wendy. If it weren't for her, Mom and I wouldn't have had this rare chance to be alone together.