At just 20 years old, Aria Anderson had burst onto the scene, freshly graduated with a degree in choreography that showcased her mastery of ballet, modern, and jazz techniques, along with a keen understanding of body conditioning. It was during this...
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Find Your Fire
"You two have a safe trip back." Mama says.
"What about Bill and me?" Daemen says.
I let out a deep sigh, frustration bubbling beneath the surface. It's infuriating how childish he can be, always vying for the spotlight as if it were his birthright. This behavior seems emblematic of that classic "other sibling" mentality, where any trace of maturity is overshadowed by the need to constantly be in the limelight. He spent the first four years of his life as the sole focus of our parents' attention, and now, it's as if he hasn't quite grasped that he has to share that affection. The result is a constant struggle for attention that leaves me exhausted and yearning for a moment of peace. It's like he's forgotten how to act around others who are equally deserving of love and recognition.
"Yeah, you're right. Bill be safe as well."
"Mama." DaeDae whines.
We all giggle except him.
"Ari come back with Michael for the holidays."
"Mama, Michael doesn't..."
"It's okay, dear." He says, "I would love to Mrs. Anderson."
"Call me Angela. You're family now."
"Thank you, Ms. Angela."
"Yeah, Mike is my best friend and brother." Daemen says putting his arm around Michael's shoulder.
"Someone is jealous." Michael murmurs removing himself from his hold.
"Mike? I knew you first."
"Yeah, you're jealous," I say laughing.
"Please don't do this the whole flight."
I giggle at Bill's frustration.
"You find this funny now. Just you wait." Bill says to me.
"I got Michael."
"That she does." He says smiling big at me.
He leans in, planting a gentle kiss on my forehead, a gesture so tender it sends a warm rush to my cheeks. I can't help but blush, feeling a delightful mix of shyness and affection wash over me, as the soft brush of his lips lingers in my mind.
"Don't do that Mike. That's still my little sister."
Michael waves him off.
"Okay, let me get some love before you go." Mama says.
I hesitantly let my fingers slip from Michael's arm, observing as he stepped back with a smug smile that hinted at his triumph. Daemen and I moved toward Mama in unison, our hearts pounding in our chests, each beat echoing our shared excitement. Just then, with a playful glint in his eyes, Daemen gently nudged my face aside, a teasing gesture that spoke volumes of our sibling bond. He was eager to envelop her in his warm embrace first, a flash of childhood memories igniting within me. The air was thick with nostalgia, transporting me back to those carefree days filled with laughter and playful shoves, reminding me of the countless moments we had spent tangled in joy and affection.
