Chapter 3: God’s Gift
Evelyn navigated the bustling streets of Vespera City, stealing glances at Elias in the passenger seat. He wore headphones and a grim expression, clearly pissed off.
Growing up, Evelyn had always been her parents' least favored child, a convenient target for their frustrations. But things slowly changed when Elias turned six and began shielding her from their wrath, even to the extent of bearing their blows. And he had never once given up on that role.
To Elias, it didn't matter if Evelyn was his biological sister or not. Despite their eight-year age gap and step-sibling status, she had showered him with the love their parents hadn't. He would stand for her even if the world accused her of wrong. But the problem was she still treated him like a kid, despite his now imposing physique.
Evelyn's eyes lit up as she spotted his favorite ice cream shop. Slowly navigating through the traffic, she parked the car nearby.
"I'll be late for my first class," Elias grumbled. His school was just two streets away, but even sprinting wouldn't get him there on time.
"My little brother is angry," Evelyn commented, unbuckling her seatbelt. "How can I send him to school like this?" Ruffling his hair, she added, "Let me make it up to you with your favorite ice cream."
Elias scoffed, a reluctant smile tugging at his lips. He couldn't stay mad at her, especially when she was being so kind, allowing him to skip school for the day. They entered the shop together, and the bell above the door tinkled merrily.
The sweet aroma of freshly made waffles enveloped them, instantly lifting their mood. Elias settled into a chair near the glass wall, granting them a view of the bustling street outside. Meanwhile, Evelyn placed their order at the counter. Despite the early hour, a few other customers occupied the tables as the shop's popularity made securing seats a challenge in the evening.
Evelyn returned with a tray, and as they enjoyed the fresh ice cream, Elias couldn't resist asking about last night. He had missed the party to attend a school competition in Velara city, arriving home late to hear the rumors. "Did you really push that voodoo doll?"