5
.
When Mark came home, I tearfully told him about Brenda and Kevin’s thievery.
But he impatiently cut me off. “It’s all because you care too much about that house. Kevin and I are brothers, and if he lost all his money, what’s wrong with giving him a house?”
“So, you knew there was no money in the card your dad gave me?!”
Mark’s face flickered with panic. “What the hell are you talking about? Since the deed’s gone, just give the house to Kevin. It’s not like you don’t have anywhere else to live.”
I was furious. I went alone to Kevin to demand the house deed. During the struggle, Kevin hit me with a stick, turning me into a vegetable.
And Mark just casually said, “Women are such a hassle! Always stirring up trouble.”
Thinking about it now, a sharp pain shot through my heart again.
I opened the closet. Mark’s clothes were neatly folded, each piece costing at least three digits. I always scrimped on myself but bought him only the best.
The more I thought about it, the angrier I got. I grabbed scissors and shredded his clothes until they were beyond recognition, only stopping when they were utterly ruined.
I took my belongings to my parents‘ house, telling them to keep everything safe and hidden from Mark’s family.
My dad, hearing what happened today, was furing, ready to roll up his sleeves and go fight them, but I stopped him.
My mom wiped away tears, whispering, “I told you not to get involved with a family like that. See? Now you know how hard it is.”
I wiped her tears. “Don’t worry, Mom. This time, I’m not letting him off easy. If he comes to you begging or saying nice things, please don’t go soft.”
On the morning of the seventh day, Mark, Brenda, and Kevin walked through my door.
Kevin showed absolutely no politeness. He didn’t even take off his shoes before sitting on the sofa, propping his feet on the
coffee table.
“Ugh, we haven’t eaten. Go out and buy us some breakfast. And grab two packs of cigarettes while you’re at it.”
I went about my business, completely ignoring him.
Brenda, seeing this, immediately stormed over to me, yelling, “Are you deaf? We haven’t eaten! Go buy us some food!”
Mark wearily pulled a hundred–dollar bill from his pocket. “Lily, go get us something to eat. We’re exhausted and don’t feel like moving”
I didn’t take the money. My silent defiance enraged Kevin.
He rushed over, pointing at me and cursing, “Who are you giving that attitude to this early in the morning? We’re telling you to buy it because we respect you! This is my brother’s house, you don’t get to act tough here!”
I glared at him, saying nothing.
