Chapter 5

She wanted to apply for the exchange program, a legitimate reason to go abroad and find her grandmother. Mr. Newton was caught off guard. "Have you spoken to your brother about this? He specifically hired an art teacher from Italy, just for you. I think his teaching skills are excellent. Why not stay and develop your talent here in the country?" With the Dobbs family's wealth, Valery never lacked access to exceptional educational resources. But that wasn't what she wanted. "Mr. Newton, my brother has been busy with his engagement lately. I've already discussed it with him, and he respects my decision. You know, my grandmother is all alone in Italy, and I worry about her." Moved by Valery's earnest plea, Mr. Newton handed her a form. "Alright, I respect your decision. Your academic performance has always been exemplary, and you truly deserve this exchange opportunity." What he didn’t say, however, was that he’d noticed the way Valery looked at Bryce—it went far beyond the boundaries of sibling affection. Now that she was taking the initiative to leave, he felt relieved. "Thank you, Mr. Newton." After the call ended, Valery exhaled deeply, only to turn around and see Bryce standing there. She had no idea how long he had been there, but his gaze was chilling. “Who were you talking to? What’s wrong with your grandma?” Bryce couldn’t quite understand the girl standing in front of him. She had changed so much. No longer did she throw tantrums or cling to him for attention. Her recent behavior, coupled with the mention of her grandmother, left him unsettled. “Nothing. I just missed Grandma. Is there something you need, brother?” After she turned eighteen, Valery stubbornly refused to call him "brother" anymore. It had infuriated Bryce. He had even punished her by denying her meals because of it. Yet, in the past few days, she had called him "brother" more often than she had in the past two years. It made him uncomfortable. “Hanna came by the house earlier and didn’t bring much clothing. I want to take her shopping, and she said we should bring you along for advice.” “You girls know fashion better than I do.” Bryce’s tone was unusually conciliatory. Valery nodded. She knew that if she refused, Bryce would bombard her with cruel words and accusations. Better to endure it than be berated. “We’ll wait for you downstairs.” Bryce was surprised by her compliance. Pausing at the door, he turned back with a faintly menacing look. “You’d better not try anything, Valery. My patience has its limits.” He left without waiting for a response. Valery remained silent. No matter what she said or did, she was always in the wrong. Let Bryce think whatever he wanted. “Valery.” Downstairs, Hanna immediately spotted her and approached, casually patting her on the shoulder like they were close friends. “Everyone in our circle says you’re the only one who truly understands your brother’s preferences. Today, you’re helping me pick out a few outfits to win his favor.” Uncomfortable with someone she disliked standing so close, Valery instinctively stepped back. Bryce shot her a disapproving glare. “What would she know? She’s just a child. Whatever she picks out, people would probably praise like they’re humoring a kitten or puppy. Nothing of real value.” “I’ll choose for you instead.” He leaned in close to Valery, his voice low and sinister. “Valery, don’t make me hate you. Kittens scratching once in a while can be amusing, but do it too often, and they become tiresome.” His words sent a chill down her spine. It was a warning, a reminder that all his past kindness had been nothing more than indulgence for a pet. And a pet’s sole purpose was to please its owner. But she was human. Watching his retreating figure, Valery followed. The wind carried away her unspoken feelings, leaving her hollow.