Faded Hearts, Broken Bonds

Met with my silence, Nathan raised a brow. "Let's be clear. I'll never like you. Don't get any ideas. And if you scheme against Valerie, I won't hold back."

"Good," I chuckled indifferently.

I yanked the necklace off, tossed it in the trash, and brushed past him.

...

In my past life, the Maddoxes took me in right after the orphanage director spotted my art talent.

They treated me well, but they insisted on molding me into a proper lady. Those endless etiquette and dance lessons made me a name in our circle.

Yet, I was always compared to Valerie until Dustin and Nathan arrived. Then she outshone me completely.

I locked myself away, winning multiple international youth art awards. My paintings were set for a major exhibition.

The night before the event, Valerie approached with some bottles. "I got these imported paints from abroad. They glow in the water. I'm so happy you're doing well."

I smiled, keeping the peace. "Thanks."

She linked arms with me. "No worries. We're family. I'll be at your exhibition with Dustin and Nathan to support you."

After she left, I tossed the paints aside.

The next day, the gallery buzzed with crowds. Valerie swept in, radiant in a red gown.

"Gail," she called out, hugging me. "That dress looks stunning. You never wear black."

Before I could respond, Nathan's mocking laugh cut through. "No matter how she dresses, she can't outshine you, Valerie. That dress is plain black, people might think she's at a funeral."

Valerie's grin widened, feigning a pout. "Oh, stop. I'm only dressed up because I just came from a performance."

She sidled up to Dustin, her expression theatrical. "Our duet today was a hit. And Gail's art is getting raves. Two big wins for the family. We're celebrating tonight."

Her voice carried, drawing attention and whispers.

"That's Valerie Maddox, the circle's top talent! She's gorgeous!"

"The Maddox family is blessed with two gifted daughters."

"Gail is alright. Who knows if her show is backed by strings? Valerie is the real deal."

Valerie basked in the praise, her cheeks turning rosy. I remained composed, mixing paints and preparing to work on a blank canvas.

A staff member announced, "Miss Gail Maddox, our special guest, will recreate Embers live."

The crowd's doubts faded, their gazes shifting from contempt to admiration.

Valerie's lips tightened, her face sour. I smirked and started to paint.

Valerie suddenly cried out, followed by a clatter.