Time flew by. In the blink of an eye, Carmen was now a college student and I had just turned eighteen and finished my college entrance exams. I saw Damian again at my coming-of-age party. He trailed behind a wealthy couple dressed in an expensive tailored suit, looking like a young celebrity. However, his face was pale and his expression lifeless. Life clearly hadn't been kind to him.

When he saw me appearing in my simple attire, he straightened his back and walked over, tilting his chin up as he scanned me from head to toe. "Looks like you haven't been living too well either. That psycho Carmen wouldn't even buy you a decent suit?"

Before I could respond, a cold voice rang out behind me. "Who are you calling a psycho?"

Damian's already pale face turned ghostly white the moment he saw her. In our past life, she had tormented him beyond recognition. Just one look from her, filled with disgust, was enough to make him tremble. "I-I'm sorry. I was talking nonsense!"

Carmen didn't spare him another glance. Instead, she turned to me and draped a wool shawl over my shoulders, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. My little brother, I made this for you myself. Happy birthday."

She pulled me into a tight hug, her voice slightly choked up. "You'll be leaving for university abroad soon. If you miss me, just call. I can always fly over to see you."

Then, she held me even tighter and whispered, "If you're uncomfortable there, I'll buy you an apartment near campus and hire a private chef from home to cook for you."

I gently declined Carmen's offer. In this life, I finally got to live like a normal person. All I wanted was to experience college life just like any other student. "Don't worry, sis. I'll take care of myself. Remember? Stay low-key."

Carmen chuckled, wiping away her tears. "Alright."

As she turned to greet other guests, Damian finally snapped out of his stunned silence. He grabbed my arm, his voice filled with urgency. "Why is she so nice to you?"

I ignored his flustered expression and replied with a half-smile, "She’s, my sister. Isn't it normal for her to be nice to me? Or are you saying your rich parents aren't nice to you?"

My question struck a nerve, bringing back painful memories. Damian broke down. He clutched his hair tightly as if drowning in agony. "How could this happen? Why is it like this?"