Unexpected Connections: My New Neighbor and Stepbrother

Chapter 5: The Other Sister

Mia had always known that it would be difficult to adjust to having a new family, but she never expected the animosity that she felt from Emma, Jackson's younger sister. From the moment they met, Emma had made it clear that she didn't like Mia.

It was a Sunday afternoon, and Mia and Jackson were lounging on the couch watching TV. Emma stormed into the room, scowling at Mia. "What are you doing here?" she spat.

"I live here, Emma," Mia replied, trying to keep her cool.

"Not for long, I hope," Emma muttered under her breath.

Jackson shot his sister a warning look. "Emma, that's enough. Mia is our sister now, and you need to treat her with respect."

Emma rolled her eyes. "Whatever. I'm going to my room." She stormed off, leaving Mia and Jackson alone on the couch.

Mia sighed, feeling frustrated and hurt. She didn't understand why Emma didn't like her. She had tried to be kind and friendly, but Emma seemed determined to dislike her.

"I'm sorry about her," Jackson said, sensing her discomfort. "She's been having a hard time adjusting to all the changes."

"It's okay," Mia said, trying to hide the hurt in her voice. "I just wish she would give me a chance."

"I know," Jackson said, wrapping his arm around her shoulders. "But it's going to take time. Just be patient with her."

Mia nodded, knowing that Jackson was right. She would have to try and be patient with Emma, even if it was difficult.

Over the next few weeks, Mia tried to make an effort to connect with Emma. She invited her to go shopping, offered to help her with her homework, and even tried to cook her favorite meal. But Emma remained distant and cold, refusing to give Mia a chance.

One afternoon, Mia was sitting in the living room, flipping through a magazine, when Emma walked in. Mia looked up, trying to smile. "Hey, Emma. How was school today?"

Emma scowled. "Fine. I just wanted to tell you that you don't belong here. You're not part of our family, and you never will be."

Mia's heart sank. She couldn't believe how cruel Emma was being. "Why are you being so mean to me, Emma? What did I ever do to you?"

Emma shrugged. "I just don't like you. And I don't want you to pretend like we're sisters or anything. We're not."

Mia felt tears stinging her eyes. She didn't know how much longer she could handle this constant rejection from Emma. She missed her old life, her old friends, and the way things used to be.

But she knew that she couldn't give up. She had to keep trying, even if it was difficult. She was part of this family now, and she had to find a way to make it work.