You Are Mine Little Sister (by Syra Tucker) novel Chapter 2

RALI - Twenty-three Years Old.

My hands were clammy with sweat as I stared at the entrance for what felt like the hundredth time.

A shiver ran down my spine, but it wasn't from the chilly breeze sneaking in from the rooftop terrace where I sat. It was that tiny voice in my head, mocking me that this was going to be like every other time.

Sweat trickled down my neck despite the crisp November air. My fingers tapped an uneven rhythm on the edge of the table, the only thing keeping me grounded as anxiety crept up on me like an unwelcome guest.

My phone buzzed beside me. Sighing, I reached for it and read the text message from Veronica.

Veronica: Hey, babe. How's it going? Don't tell me you two are kissing already!

A sad smile tugged at the corners of my lips as I typed back a response.

Me: 'Well, we're definitely kissing. Right here in my imagination. We're the perfect couple.

It took her longer to reply this time, and I could imagine her being affected by the news.

Veronica: Ohhh, I see! So he's that type of guy—mysterious, invisible, possibly imaginary. Definitely a keeper!

I laughed, the heaviness in my chest easing a little. Well, she definitely knew how to make bad situations a little better.

Another buzz.

Veronica: Just hold on tight, honey. I'm sure he's stuck in traffic or something.

I rolled my eyes.

Me: The last time, you said the last person's wallet probably went missing and he's stuck looking for it. Now, this?

Veronica: Well, I might just be right this time. Just hold on, okay?

I sighed wearily, dropping the phone and staring back at the entrance. Still, no sign of him.

I decided to stick to Veronica's words anyway and wait some more.

Veronica was my adopted sister. I was eight months older than her, and it had been so easy bonding as she was a very funny and lively person.

Mummy and daddy had brought her in two years after 'he' left. After the horrible incident that left me traumatized for a really long time.

Memories of that horrible day flooded my mind. Eventually, the monster had vanished after beating Jasper to unconsciousness. I'd called for help and fortunately, Jasper survived after meeting the doctor. But he kept his distance from me and was no longer my friend.

It was a loss that ran deep and made me cry for several weeks. It also made me detest the monster who was my brother and hope I never get to see him again.

He never returned home, and it's been sixteen years already. There was still no news of him. I honestly hoped there would never be.

I glanced at the watch on my wrist. 8:15 PM.

We'd agreed to meet at seven, yet here I was, my half glass of wine the only companion I had.

Resigned, I signaled a waiter, cleared the bill and left.

A weight like stone settled in my chest as I walked down the quiet street leading to my home. I was grateful I'd picked a place close to my apartment this time so I didn't have to go through the hassle of finding a cab.

The chill of the evening breeze kissed my face, yet it didn't do much to cool the burning humiliation in my chest.

It always happens. I'm never lucky.

Halfway down that street, that feeling returned—a cold prickle spreading across my skin, raising the hairs on my arms.

I turned quickly, hoping to see someone, but I'm met with the rows of parked cars and shadowy houses lining the street.

There was no one—like always.

A small frown creased my brows.

Someone was watching me.

For a long time, I'd been getting this feeling. But each time I turned for a look, I never find anyone. Yet, I couldn't shake off the instinct that there was someone around, keeping an eye on me.

.....

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify