I wiped my tears. Pulled out a cigarette. Lit it with one hand.
Then I leaned in close and blew the smoke right into Christina's face.
"Here's your first lesson. I'm the legitimate daughter—born to the actual wife. You? You're the bastard child of a home-wrecker."
I took another drag.
"Until I speak to you first, you don't get to open your mouth in my presence. Understood?"
I ground the cigarette into the back of her hand.
As her skin sizzled and Christina's scream tore through the air, I seized her chin.
"You think I don't know? You were alone with my mother before she died. I haven't even settled that score yet—so don't push me!"
"Fern! Have you lost your mind?!" My father slammed his palm on the table. Glenda rushed to pull the sobbing Christina into her arms, shooting me a venomous glare.
I dusted off my hands, a hollow laugh escaping my lips.
"My mother only ever had one daughter. Where exactly did this bargain-bin sister come from?"
"Dad, you know my temper. You want to throw a wedding for these two? Legitimize them in front of everyone?" I tilted my head. "Go ahead. I'll have someone tear the whole thing apart. Try me."
Perhaps it was because I was still, technically, Mrs. Henson.
My father's face went rigid. Glenda's expression curdled.
But the moment shattered when a familiar voice cut in from behind me.
"With me here, I'd like to see anyone try."
Kevin strolled in, one hand tucked casually in his pocket.
The instant Christina saw him, her tears found new purpose. She threw herself into his arms, thrusting her burned hand toward him like a wounded dove.
Kevin's brow creased with concern. He stroked her hair, murmuring softly, "It's okay, sweetheart. I'll take you to the best dermatologist in the city. Not a single scar, I promise."
His voice turned lighter, almost playful. "Our Christina still has to be the prettiest bridesmaid at Mom's wedding, doesn't she?"
I stared at him, my voice cracking. "Kevin. Do you even hear yourself?"
He lifted his gaze to meet mine. His lips curved into something that wasn't quite a smile, but his eyes—his eyes were glacial.
"I heard everything. Men from wealthy families—who doesn't have a woman or two on the side? Your mother died because she couldn't handle it. And somehow, that's Christina's fault?"
His tone sharpened. "You got to grow up with a father by your side. Why shouldn't Christina have the same?"