Lorelei and Cora

Chapter 3 explains how Jaylen instilled fear of men in Lorelei, his daughter

From age five until I turned thirteen, my father treated me well. However, our relationship deteriorated on the day of my thirteenth birthday. Before turning 13, my dad and I shared a deep bond, filling our lives with countless treasured moments. My father, Jaylen, enrolled me in school. I quickly found my place among the popular crowd before they gained recognition, forming friendships with Cora and her friends, Marinette, Roxy, and Renee—all kept secret from my dad. He sparked my passion for horseback riding by arranging lessons; he always rode alongside me to ensure my safety. I rode a Shetland pony named Magical, while my dad rode a stallion named Star. I became friends with Cora through our shared love for horseback riding, as she also took lessons and rode a horse named Fluff. My media teacher, Miss Liz, eagerly anticipated Thursdays, her day to pick a horror movie for our class, a privilege we earned. Luckily, my dad introduced me to horror movies through children's films like Coraline and ParaNorman, empowering me to face my fears and live on my terms. I always envisioned being a popular kid who effortlessly made friends, but that never materialized. Cora and her friends were my sole companions; despite their flaws, I cherished them. However, it's crucial to note that when Cora confided in them about her struggles, asking for their help, they left us hanging without my knowledge. I longed for a happy life, but Jaylen taught me to be wary of whom to trust. I quickly learned that the friends I thought were genuine weren't. Before everything turned sour, they showed little concern for Cora or me when they became famous at school, gradually drifting away from us. I foolishly hoped my dad would stand by me and that Cora and her friends would offer support. My dreams were shattered the day before my 13th birthday, when my hell began, as he became a different, unkind person. His engagement complicated Cora's life several months later, as my father met her mother, and they fell in love, making Cora and I step-sisters. This is something I feel comfortable sharing with you now.

As I was bracing myself for an extended two-hour walk home, I was pleasantly surprised when my dad decided to pick me up in his car. During the drive, I noticed he was on the phone with Miss Darcy Summers, and I could hear the entire phone call. He shared, "I can't afford Lorelei's school fees this month. I'm saving every penny for my wedding to someone special." Jaylen said, leaving me confused. I heard her huff before kindly offering her advice. "Jaylen, remember, you can pay us back later. Lorelei's education is important." She said, showing she cared about me, but my dad responded, "Thank you, but I'd rather not owe anyone money. I'd rather take her out of school, so my future wife can have a lovely wedding. Once I'm married, I'll re-enroll her back in school." Hearing this made my heart sink a little. Nevertheless, Darcy's warm reply, "I understand. Congrats, and we're excited to have Lorelei back soon in our care; take care." That was when Jaylen hung up, and it brought me little comfort, even at this challenging moment, as I had to leave without saying goodbye. When the call ended, my dad seemed a bit frustrated. He firmly said, "From now on, no dad-related names. There will be consequences if you use them." I nodded, acknowledging the new rule. "Got it, Bitch!" He said, raising his voice, startling me. "Yes, I understand." Conflicting feelings washed over me, a blend of sadness and fear about what was next. Tears brimmed as I encountered a side of him I had never seen before. To help myself calm down, I looked for my drink bottle in my bag and found small birthday gifts from my friends, which brought a flicker of joy. I knew I would miss out on this kindness if it were given to me later. When we finally arrived home, I dashed to my room to open the gifts from my friends. Eventually, exhaustion took over, and I fell asleep, having cried for hours without a bite to eat. Upon waking, I noticed enough food was prepared for two, but only one plate was set out. "Go to your room, you bad girl. You won't get any dinner tonight." I hurried back to my room, feeling a wave of hunger, fear, and loneliness wash over me for the first time. As I wept that night, I realized how much my dad had changed, and it weighed heavily on my heart as I didn't understand why he was so angry with me.