First Last Steps

Chapter One

It was odd to be around so many people who all thought my dad was somehow a hero. Part of me wanted to see him like that for just a moment. I tried to pictured him as the hero who'd taken me new sister out of poverty and graciously into his home. But the truth wouldn't stop screaming in my ear. Not even for a second. I know that he's just replacing me. But no one else sees it. I don't think he even sees it. He's been so oblivious to everything, even himself, ever since mom left him. He always wanted the perfect daughter. But I'm not her.

I realize I've been clenching a card someone gave me. "Best Big Sister!" Those the simple words couldn't have been father from the truth. Best. I'm not the best sure anything. Big. Although I am bigger then my new little sibling, I don't feel like it. I could be a giant and my dad would fit me into her minuscule shadow. And sister. I'm not anyone's sisters. I never will be.

A lock of hair starts slipping from my beanie. I cram it back in. I look around and see everyone taking. Eating. My dad looking fake in the middle of all of it. I want to leave. So I decide I will.

I start towards my car, but I see my dad coming towards me. I don't need to deal with him right now. I try the breathing exercises they gave me at my therapy. It doesn't work. I quicken my pace.

My dad calls out to me, "Sophie! Come on! Join the party!" My blood is boiling, but I try to ignore him. Unfortunately, he tries again. "Soph-"

I whirl around in rage. "Don't. Call. Me. That." I want to stop there. I want to just leave. But I can't figure out how. "I've told you. I'm Stefan."

He shakes his head. "When will this end?" he mutters under his breath. To me he says, "This isn't acceptable behavior young lady. How embar-"

"I'm not a young lady." It's practically a whisper, but I know he heard me.

"We'll talk about this at home young l-"

"Stop there." That actually was a whisper, but he heard me. Without giving him time to respond I get into my car.