Blurb：
After the disappearance of the fake heiress Emily Zeller, Lily Zeller is forced into a memory extraction by her family—Ben Zeller, Mary York, and Steve Zeller—who believe she bullied Emily into running away. As the cold metal cuffs and helmet reveal Lily’s memories, the truth unfolds: Lily was the victim all along. Witness the emotional turmoil as guilt consumes the Zeller family, and Lily’s haunting question, “Who are you?” leaves them shattered. Dive into this gripping tale of betrayal, family secrets, and a twisted heiress swap that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Content：
To find the missing fake heiress, my family forced me to undergo a memory extraction.
They were convinced that I had bullied her for the past three years and driven her to run away.
I gave a bitter smile and let them continue.
As the memories surfaced one after another, the truth became clear. I was the one who had been bullied all along.
My parents, overcome with guilt, clutched my hands so tightly they nearly fainted.
My brothers eyes were bloodshot, his teeth grinding until he drew blood.
In their arms, I looked up in confusion and asked softly, Who are you?
Chapter 1
Five days after the fake heiress, Emily Zeller, disappeared, my family locked me inside a private hospital lab.
Cold metal cuffs clamped around my wrists, ankles, and neck. A strange metal helmet sat on my head, with thick black wires, each as wide as a thumb, running from it into a large, humming machine.
They were going to extract my memories.
Terrified, I struggled with everything I had, but it was no use. My parents and my brother, Steve Zeller, stood in front of me. Their faces were cold and emotionless, without a trace of pity.
Ill ask you one last time. Where did Emily go?
My father, Ben Zeller, gripped a letter in his hand. His voice shook with fury, and his eyes were filled with rage. After five days, his patience had completely run out.
Before I could speak, he threw the letter in my face. Dont tell me you dont know. Emilys letter makes it clear youre the only one who does. Her disappearance is your fault!
I had already read that letter.
Every word of it was heavy with guilt. Emily wrote that she wasnt their real daughter and had no right to keep clinging to the family. After fighting with me for three years, she said she was tired and ready to walk away.
She gave back everything that belonged to me and made sure to say that it wasnt my fault. She even begged them not to make things hard for me or ask where she went.
But the letter said just enough to make it sound like I had something to do with it. Anyone could see that.
The truth was, I knew nothing.
The day she disappeared, I was shivering in the cold, locked inside the utility room. Steve had punished me the night before because Emily accused me of pushing her down the stairs.
Of course, that was a lie. I hadnt even touched her.
But she used that lie to leave, saying she didnt want to fight anymore.
As if all of it were somehow my fault.
That was when my familys anger finally exploded.
I dont know where she went, I said quietly, lowering my head as the cold metal dug into my wrists and neck.
It was the same answer I had given countless times. I truly didnt know.
For five days, I had repeated myself again and again, trying to explain that Emily had left on her own.
But my family didnt believe me. They never did.
They always believed Emily.
Lily, why do you hate Emily so much? Youve been back for three years. What has she ever done to you? my mother, Mary York asked.
Her lips trembled as she spoke. Her pale face was tight with exhaustion. She hadnt slept properly or eaten in days, and worry for Emily had hollowed her cheeks until she looked years older.
Have you forgotten the day we brought you home? she continued, stepping closer, her eyes shining with tears. Emily made you lemon tea herself. Shes been spoiled since she was little and never even set foot in a kitchen, but she still tried to make your favorite drink and ended up cutting her finger.
She looked at me with tears in her eyes. Lily, please tell me where Emily went. Please. Im going crazy.
It never took much to make her cry.
Chapter 2
Because this was about Emily.
I lifted my head slightly, wanting to speak but stopping halfway. In the end, I just let out a small, bitter laugh.
Lemon tea. That was where my nightmares began.
But who would ever believe me?
So I stayed silent.
Steve suddenly stepped forward and slapped me hard across the face.
You stupid farm girl. Go on, keep pretending to be mute. This memory extractor was made just for you. Enjoy it while you can.
Steve had always despised me, and that slap was full of hatred. My cheek burned, my head spun, and the taste of blood filled my mouth.
Ben stood off to the side, watching coldly.
Mary turned to Steve and snapped, Steve, what are you doing? If you hurt her, it could interfere with the memory extraction.
She deserves it, Steve snapped, his voice rising with rage. It would be better if she died right here.
He jabbed a finger at me, his tone dripping with resentment. Its been three years. Think about everything shes done.
The day we brought her home, she was like a stray dog. She even peed in the car, remember? And once she got here, she made Emily cry the moment she stepped through the door. Did she really think coming back meant she could be treated like a princess?
The more he talked, the angrier he became. Remember when Mom had a fever? Emily stayed up all night taking care of her until she nearly passed out. And what did this wild brat do? She slept without a care in the world, not even pretending to show concern or respect.
He grabbed my chin, squeezing my bloody mouth until I could barely breathe, then spat in my face. Even the smallest thing shows what kind of person you are. Youre heartless and selfish. Youre not even worth a single strand of Emilys hair.
Pain shot through my jaw, but his grip kept me silent.
I wanted to defend myself, but after three years of trying and never once being believed, I gave up.
Fine. Maybe I really was the selfish, ungrateful one.
Emily was the perfect daughter they loved so much.
Enough. Dont hurt her. Extracting her memories is what matters most, Ben said. His voice was calm but carried a weight that silenced the room.
Mary sighed, gently wiping the blood from my lips. Lily, dont blame Steve for hating you. You really have done wrong.
Yes. I did wrong.
I laughed quietly to myself again. Somehow, the fear I had felt toward the machine faded after Steves slap.
Pain makes people ache, but it also numbs them. So go ahead. Let this so-called memory extractor do its worst, I thought bitterly.
I closed my eyes and stayed completely still.
Steve sneered. Not fighting back anymore? Guess you finally know your place.
He reached to start the machine, but Ben stopped him.
Bens patience had worn thin, yet he still gave me one last chance. Lily, this machine is one of Steves companys latest inventions. Its unstable and could easily damage your brain. So Ill ask you one last time. Are you going to tell us where Emily went? If you do, Ill give you ten million dollars and send you back to that little town you came from. After that, well be done for good.
Back to that little town? The thought hit me hard.
My eyes flew open. A deep, instinctive fear surged through me, and I shook my head immediately.
I didnt want to go back there.
See? Steve said with a cold smile. She only came back for the money and comfort. She turned her back on the people who raised her, and now even ten million isnt enough. She just wants to stay here and play princess. Probably hopes to inherit the family estate someday. Pathetic.
My parents exchanged uneasy glances. Their faces darkened.
Chapter 3
I had always been greedy. Even a penny on the ground was something I couldnt resist picking up and hiding away.
My family hated that about me. And now, when I showed no interest in ten million dollars and only wanted to stay in the city, they despised me even more.
Im not going back because
My voice trembled as I tried to explain, but before I could finish, Ben cut me off with a wave of his hand. Enough. Youve got guts, Ill give you that. But you wont get another chance. Mr. Wilson, come in!
A man in a white lab coat walked into the room, holding a strange-looking pocket watch. His expression was serious and focused. Without a word, he bowed respectfully to my parents and to Steve.
Bens voice was cold. Start the procedure. Extract her memories immediately. I want to know where Emily went.
Yes, sir, Mr. Wilson replied without hesitation. He moved to the machine, pressed three buttons, and then handed three metal helmets to my parents and Steve.
Mr. Zeller, he explained carefully, once the three of you sit down and put these helmets on, youll be able to view the subjects memories through the built-in visual interface. Based on her brain activity, shell only be able to recall three memories. Anything beyond that is extremely dangerous and could cause brain damage, seizures, bleeding, or permanent memory loss.
Three times is enough. The first one should be about Emilys disappearance. She definitely knows something, Steve said impatiently as he grabbed a helmet and sat down beside me.
Mr. Wilson hesitated. The subjects emotions are unstable. I recommend guiding her through hypnosis to help her recall Miss Emilys disappearance gradually. Forcing it too quickly could be harmful.
Steve frowned but said nothing. My parents nodded in agreement, letting Mr. Wilson proceed as he saw fit.
A few moments later, all three of them were seated with the helmets in place. Mr. Wilson dimmed the harsh lights and stepped in front of me.
I stared at him numbly, completely still.
He pressed a button on my helmet, and soothing, rhythmic music filled my ears. I felt a cool sensation at the back of my head, as if some liquid had been injected.
Miss Lily, Mr. Wilson said gently, please dont resist. You know the more you fight it, the more painful it becomes. Its better to
Alright, I murmured. My voice was calm, and I let myself relax completely.
Mr. Wilson paused for a moment, clearly surprised, but then focused again. He lifted the pocket watch and slowly swung it in front of my eyes.
Miss Lily, go to sleep. In your dream, youll remember your first meeting with Miss Emily. It was a happy time between sisters.
His voice was low and hypnotic. My eyes fluttered shut, and within seconds, I drifted into sleep.
Time folded in on itself, and distant memories began to surface, warm and golden, like sunlight breaking through the clouds.
*
I slowly opened my eyes and found myself sitting in a luxury car.
It was Steves Maybach S680. He was driving himself, taking my parents, me, and Emily, whom I was meeting for the first time, home with excitement.
Oh. I was dreaming about the first time I went home.
I turned my head and saw Emily beside me. Her bright hair was pulled back into a neat ponytail. She held my hand and talked nonstop, her smile warm and easy.
Wow, youre so tall, Lily. What are you, like five-five? Im barely five feet. Guess Im the short one here, she said with a playful pout.
Then she looked down at my hands, her expression softening. Youve had it rough out there, havent you? Your hands are all cracked. You wont have to do farm work ever again, I promise.
Chapter 4
My parents sat nearby, smiling warmly as they watched us.
I felt tense. My plain clothes and awkward posture made me look like a beggar next to Emily. But her warmth quickly eased my nerves, and my throat tightened as I murmured my thanks.
Emily waved it off, then reached into her backpack and pulled out a cup of lemon tea.
Lily, our family already has everything. Giving you something expensive wouldnt mean much. You can buy whatever you want anyway. But I thought this lemon tea would mean more.
Her tone carried a touch of pride. Its my favorite drink. I usually have the housekeeper make it, but this time I made it myself. I hope you like it.
Ben chuckled. Thats a pretty modest gift for Lilys homecoming.
Emily shot him a playful look. You dont get it, Dad. Its not about how much it costs. Its about the thought that counts.
The car filled with laughter.
I blinked, soaking in the warmth around me. For the first time, I thought, So this is what it feels like to be a daughter who can laugh and tease her father.
I took the cup and, under Emilys expectant gaze, drank every drop.
It was delicious.
But within moments, I felt a sudden pressure in my bladder.
It wasnt normal. It hit all at once, like a dam bursting inside me.
My legs started to shake. My lips turned pale. Cold sweat slid down my back.
I cant wet myself, I muttered to myself.
This was my first time meeting my family. I couldnt humiliate myself like that, not in Steves car.
I have to get out, I thought frantically.
But we were on the highway.
Lily, are you okay? Do you feel sick? Emily noticed something was wrong and grabbed my hand.
My family turned to look at me.
Steve cracked the window open a little to let in some air, trying to be considerate. But the rush of cold wind only made it worse.
Can we stop for a minute? I asked weakly.
This is the highway, Emily said softly. Theres a rest stop in about six miles. Just lean on my shoulder for a bit and relax.
She pulled me close before I could protest. My parents reassured me, saying it was fine, that we were family.
I opened my mouth to explain anyway, squeezing my legs together as hard as I could.
Dad, Mom, Steve, we really should stop the car. I
Before I could finish, Emily shifted slightly, and her hand accidentally pressed down on my stomach.
A shiver ran through my whole body.
I lost control of my bladder.
Warm liquid spread between my legs, soaking through the seat and dripping onto the floor mat.
The sharp, embarrassing smell quickly filled the small space.
Emily gasped and instinctively pulled away. Lily, you
My parents turned to look at me, their faces stiff with a strange mix of surprise and discomfort.
Steve braked hard on the shoulder and glanced back in disbelief, his eyes fixed on the large, wet stain.
He had always been a clean freak. His car was spotless. And now it was filthy and stinking of urine.
My face burned with shame. I stared at my lap, trembling.
I was terrified of being scolded. Terrified of being hit. I couldnt bear any of it.
When the car started moving again, the mood had completely changed.
Emily tried to keep things light, chattering as if nothing had happened. My parents comforted me, telling me it was alright.
Steve said nothing. He hated the mess, but he didnt yell. He just drove in silence, his expression dark and heavy.
Then I heard his voice again.
This stupid girl is really making us watch this crap? Disgusting. My car was ruined because of her piss.
The voice sounded distant. It wasnt from the memory.
Oh.
I understood then.
It was Steve in the real world, the one watching my memory, still disgusted by me.
But I couldnt wake up.
All I could do was listen to his contempt.
Chapter 5
My parents looked disgusted too.
She wet herself the first time we met her. Is she stupid? Couldnt she use the bathroom before getting in the car? Ben snapped.
Mary sighed. She really isnt normal. Even if she had to go, couldnt she just say something? Instead, she suddenly peed in the car. If word gets out, how will the Zeller family ever hold its head high?
A bitter smile tugged at my lips.
So they had despised me from the very beginning.
They just never said it out loud.
The dream continued, clear and vivid.
When we returned to the mansion, the housekeeper had already cleaned up. I was greeted with a grand welcome that had clearly been planned in advance.
Everyone seemed genuinely happy to see me.
After the small celebration, I was given a bedroom on the third floor.
Emily helped me make the bed, still as cheerful as ever, comforting me about what had happened.
Lily, dont take it to heart. None of us care about that. Get some rest, and later Ill take you shopping, she said brightly.
She was so warm and kind.
At the time, I was still grateful to her. But I wasnt naive. I had a faint suspicion there was something wrong with that lemon tea.
So I said gently, Emily, did you add something weird to the lemon tea? I started feeling strange and lost control of my bladder right after drinking it.
I had never imagined she did it on purpose, so I asked her directly.
Emily froze for a second, then turned and smiled. Oh, so you figured it out? I didnt think youd notice. But it doesnt matter. I just added a little diuretic.
I stared at her, confused. Whats a diuretic?
After fifteen years in the countryside, I knew nothing beyond how to work the fields and endure beatings.
Emily let out a soft laugh. Its good for your stomach. Youre going to be treated like a princess now, so I wanted to help you get healthier first. You dont mind, right? I didnt expect you to actually pee in the car.
Her smile shifted. The playfulness vanished, replaced by something sharp and smug.
That was when I realized it had all been her doing.
But after years of abuse and humiliation, I had already learned to stay silent.
I opened my mouth, but no words came out. All I felt was the dull ache in my chest.
Seeing me like that, Emily covered her mouth to hide a laugh. Then she stumbled out of the room in a dramatic rush, tears suddenly spilling down her face.
Startled, I stood up just as she ran straight into Steves arms on the stairs.
He immediately asked what was wrong.
Emily shook her head, pretending not to want to say. Steve frowned and pulled her closer. Tell me, he said.
Its my fault, she sobbed. I shouldnt have given her the lemon tea. She wet herself because of it. She got mad and scolded me. I just wanted to do something nice for her.
Her tearful words made Steves expression darken instantly.
My parents heard everything from downstairs and came up to comfort her.
They all stood outside my door, looking in at me without saying a word.
It felt like there was an invisible wall between us, one I could never cross.
I sank down on the bed and curled up.
So this new home wasnt the paradise I imagined.
It had its monster too.
*
The distant memory brought tears to my eyes.
I didnt want to see more.
I forced my eyes open.
Mr. Wilson stood in front of me, observing and taking notes.
Beside him, my parents and Steve removed their helmets one by one, taking a break. Their expressions were strange. They exchanged glances but said nothing.
Tears were still streaming down my face.
I wasnt even sad anymore. It was just the force of the memory overwhelming me, squeezing tears out of me before I could stop them.
Alright, stop crying, Steve muttered. He pressed his lips together. I misjudged you back then. Emily was just a kid, always playing around. Dont take it too seriously.
Chapter 6
Yes, Lily, Mary said softly, trying to calm me down. Emily has always been a little troublemaker. Ill talk to her next time.
Ben turned to Mr. Wilson. There are still two chances left. Hurry up and make her recall where Emily went.
Please dont worry, Mr. Zeller, Mr. Wilson said confidently. Miss Lily has been very cooperative. Well get results soon.
My parents and Steve said nothing more. After a short rest, they sat down again and put their helmets back on.
Mr. Wilson gently wiped away my tears and began another round of hypnosis.
Miss Lily, he said in a calm voice, you and Miss Emily are sisters. Tell me, what is the one thing you remember most clearly about her?
The thing I remembered most clearly?
My memories began to blur, and the dream twisted into chaos. I couldnt steady it right away because there were too many moments burned into my mind, each one sharp and impossible to forget.
They surfaced in fragments, scattered and broken.
One after another, the memories began to flash before me.
Whats wrong with me smoking, huh? If you dare tell Mom and Dad, Ill kill you!
Outside the school gates, Emily had been smoking when I caught her. She grabbed me by the collar and cursed at me.
I swore I wouldnt tell anyone. She smiled sweetly, then suddenly lifted my skirt. I believe you wont snitch, but I still have to teach you a lesson. Im wearing a skirt today too, so you shouldnt be.
Before I could react, she pressed the lit cigarette into my thigh.
There was a sharp sizzle, followed by smoke rising from my skin. I screamed in pain as she laughed.
Not bad, huh? Youve got nice legs. That burn looks perfect!
*
Hey, its raining outside. My nightgown blew off the balcony. Go get it.
It was pouring that night. Emily stood by the door, smirking as I reached for an umbrella.
She snatched it from my hand and shoved me outside. Youre just a filthy stray dog. What do you need an umbrella for? Go on, get wet.
The door slammed behind me. I stood there, drenched from head to toe, while she laughed from inside.
*
You little brat. Ill give you a hundred grand if you go back to that small town you came from. I cant stand the sight of you.
Emily was always trying to get rid of me.
She tried threats, bribes, and even pretending to be nice, but I refused to go.
Her temper finally broke. So youre staying? You really think youre some kind of princess? Let me tell you something. Im the only princess in this house. Get on your knees.
She loved making me kneel. Maybe it made her feel powerful.
When I refused, she didnt hit me or yell. She just smiled, took out a stack of cash, and waved it in front of me.
Kneel and bow, and its yours.
I bit my lip, took the money, and did as she said.
She laughed loud and hard. You little money-grubber. Looks like I dont even need to try with you. All it takes is cash. And thats one thing Ive got plenty of.
Yes. For money, I would do anything.
Enough!
The voice cut through the dream.
Steve tore off his headset and shouted, What on earth is this, Mr. Wilson? You really think these memories are real? That liar is slandering Emily!
My parents pulled off their helmets too, their faces pale with shock.
Mr. Wilson bowed respectfully. In theory, memories cant be fabricated.
Ugh! Steve kicked a chair, speechless with rage.
Bens expression was hard and unreadable. After a long silence, he finally said, Lily brought this on herself. She didnt fight back because she wanted the money. That only encouraged Emilys behavior.
Mary nodded and sighed. Thats true. Emily was young and liked to tease people, but Lily shouldnt have let her. In a way, shes at fault too.
Chapter 7
I listened to Marys voice, and the dream slowly began to steady. The chaos faded away.
All I had ever wanted was her love. But she never seemed to love me.
Mr. Wilson glanced at the monitor and said quickly, Mr. Zeller, Miss Lilys memories are still continuing. Would you like to keep watching?
My parents and Steve exchanged a look, then hurried to sit down again and put their helmets back on.
This time, I dreamed of Mary.
She had a high fever.
She lay in bed, half-conscious, groaning every now and then. Ben was out of town, and Steve was at the office. Other than the housekeeper, only Emily and I were home.
Using what I had learned back in my small town, I brought in a basin of hot water, soaked a towel, and gently wiped Marys forehead, arms, and back again and again.
She drifted in and out of sleep after taking her medicine.
Emily glanced at me and scoffed. Mom already took her medicine. The doctor said shell be fine. Why are you acting like its such a big deal?
Im just trying to cool her down, I said quietly. Back home, a woman once had a fever like this and never recovered. She ended up simple-minded afterward.
Emily burst out laughing. Are you kidding me? This is a major city, not that little town you came from.
I ignored her and kept caring for Mary.
Worry gnawed at me. I couldnt eat or sleep, terrified she would get worse. I stayed by her side all night, wiping away sweat each time her fever returned.
By dawn, the fever finally broke. She fell into a deep sleep, breathing evenly.
Exhausted but relieved, I cleaned up the basin and towel, then lay down on my bed.
It was barely morning when Steve stormed into my room and yanked me up.
He dragged me to the foot of the bed and slapped me hard across the face.
How dare you sleep like nothing happened? Mom was burning up all night! Where were you?
Rage filled his voice. And you told everyone she didnt need looking after because she took her medicine? What do you think she is, made of steel?
My face throbbed. I was too stunned to speak. I Mom
Shut up, you worthless thing. You only show concern when moneys involved.
Steve turned to leave. Emily stayed up all night taking care of her and almost fainted this morning. And look at you, sleeping like a baby.
That was the first time he ever hit me. He had disliked me for a long time, but that day, his hatred finally broke loose.
Tears streamed down my face, and the pain burned deep inside me.
I ran out, desperate to explain, but stopped when I saw Emily holding Moms arm, laughing softly as they walked down the hall together.
I looked at Mary. She met my eyes for a moment, and for the first time, I saw nothing but coldness there.
The motherly love I had longed for all my life shattered completely.
Then a voice cut through the dream.
Wait it was Lily who took care of me that night?
I slowly opened my eyes.
My parents and Steve had removed their helmets and were staring at me in shock.
My thoughts were hazy. I couldnt tell if I was still dreaming or awake.
Marys eyes were red as she hesitantly reached out to touch my face. Lily, why didnt you say something earlier? I misunderstood you.
I said nothing.
Those memories were too painful. They numbed me more than anything.
Ben let out a long sigh after a heavy silence. Lily really is hopeless. She never speaks up about anything. By keeping quiet, she only encouraged Emilys behavior.
Chapter 8
As her older sister, you hold a lot of responsibility for letting Emily behave that way, Ben said coldly. Of course, Ill punish her too. Once we find her, Ill make sure shes confined for three days.
Steve frowned. Dad, theres no need to punish her. Its not like she did something unforgivable. I understand her. Shes told me more than once that shes scared of losing us, scared of being replaced by Lily. She just wasnt thinking clearly.
Yes. She just wasnt thinking clearly.
I closed my eyes again, a dry, bitter smile tugging at my lips.
Why could I still smile?
It was strange.
Even now, they still loved Emily.
And me? I had never been loved.
Its almost funny. Who grows up never knowing what love feels like? I thought bitterly.
Mr. Wilson glanced at my condition and spoke carefully. Mr. Zeller, shall we continue? Miss Lilys memories have already been extracted twice. Shes been cooperative, but her mental state seems unstable. I suggest we pause for now.
Pause? Emilys missing! Shes been gone for five days. Shes never suffered a day in her life, and now she could be in danger. I need to find her right now!
Bens voice thundered with fury, and Mr. Wilson immediately fell silent. He turned back to the controls and continued the hypnosis.
This time, I dreamed of the day Emily disappeared.
Three days before she disappeared, Ben bought me a piano and told me to practice.
It wasnt because he cared about me. He just thought I didnt act like a daughter from a wealthy family.
I felt like a beggar who had suddenly moved into a wealthy family, completely out of place.
Whenever guests came over, he made me hide so no one would see me. He only let Emily, the talented and graceful one, appear in front of them.
But that couldnt last forever. Rumors started spreading outside that the Zellers oldest daughter had been sent back to that little town she came from because no one had ever seen her.
So Ben, feeling the pressure, decided it was time to fix me.
The piano was just the first step.
He bought it, hired a teacher, and wanted to see if I had any talent.
To everyones surprise, I did. The teacher kept praising me over and over again.
Ben was pleased and told me to keep practicing.
He even smiled at me.
It was the first time I had ever been praised by my family. I hid in the bathroom and cried for a long time.
After that, I poured my heart into practice.
I wanted to become a pianist. I wanted to belong in this family. I never wanted to go back to that small town again.
That place terrified me.
But after only two days, I sliced my fingers on hidden razor blades wedged between the piano keys.
Almost every gap had one.
Blood poured down my hand the moment I pressed a key.
I screamed in pain as Emily came rushing over, her face twisted into a fake look of concern.
What happened, Lily? Did you slice your finger open?
There was no doubt in my mind that it was her doing.
Shaking with anger, I shouted, Dad told me to practice! Why do you always have to be so cruel?
Emily grinned. Thats right, I am cruel. I dont like you playing the piano, and I dont like Dad praising you. Got a problem with that?
Blood dripped from my fingers as I clenched my teeth, ready to tell on her.
Emily followed lazily behind me, then suddenly leaned close and whispered in my ear with a strange, chilling laugh. Go ahead, Bunny Girl. Tell on me.
A shiver ran through my entire body. Terror spread through me like ice, and the world around me seemed to darken all at once.
I fell to the floor, trembling, staring up at her. You how do you know about that?
Chapter 9
Emily smirked. I looked into it. Back in your hometown, they called you the Bunny Girl. How pathetic. Maybe I should tell Mom and Dad what that means.
With her head held high, she started down the stairs.
Panic rose in my chest. Dont tell them. Please, Im sorry. I wont play the piano again. Ill listen to you, I promise.
Thats better, she said with satisfaction. Remember, youre just a stray dog. As long as you obey, Ill toss you a bone. But if you ever start thinking you deserve more, dont blame me for what happens next.
She pressed her heel into my bleeding fingers. Since youre being so obedient, Ill show you my next trick. Tomorrow, Im going to run away. Youll stay here and enjoy being the only daughter for once.
Her eyes sparkled with excitement. I cant wait to see how everyone reacts when Im gone.
Why are you doing this? My voice trembled from the pain.
Emily lifted her chin. Why am I doing this? Obviously, to make sure everyone knows Im the one and only princess of this family.
She paused, her tone turning icy. Youve been back for three years, and Mom and Dad still cant bring themselves to send you away. They may be idiots, but theyre obsessed with blood ties. It makes me nervous.
Emily knew my darkest secret and didnt care that she was exposing her own ambition.
She looked down at me with smug superiority. Youre their real daughter. As long as you exist, youre a threat to me. The Zeller fortune belongs to me, not you.
You can blame Mom, Dad, and Steve for being so stupid. They treat me better than their own blood. But dont worry. Once I inherit everything, I wont leave you with nothing. Ill give you five hundred a month. Thats a lot more than those families on welfare back in your hometown ever get, isnt it?
Her laughter echoed down the hallway.
I curled up on the floor, trembling, surrounded by my own blood.
Satisfied, she ran downstairs, then deliberately threw herself onto the steps and rolled down, screaming dramatically. Help! Somebody help! Lily cut herself!
After that, the whole thing became my fault.
I became the girl who sliced her own hand just to get out of piano practice, while Emily was the sweet sister who tried to help and got pushed down the stairs for it.
Ben was furious. He kicked the piano over and refused to even look at me anymore.
Mary was deeply disappointed too. She said I must have psychological problems, that I was withdrawn and prone to self-harm.
Steve suggested sending me to a psychiatric hospital. He said someone with self-harming tendencies might hurt his dear sister next.
But before they could send me away, Emily disappeared.
She left behind a suicide note.
She wrote that my self-harm had shaken her deeply.
Lily has been fighting me for three years, and now shes hurting herself. Its all my fault. I took what should have been hers. Im leaving now. Ill give it all back to her.
Her words were full of emotion, and the notes implication was clear.
I was the villain. The one who had driven her away.
And from that moment on, the whole family turned against me.
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