Christina sidled up beside me, grabbing my hand like we were the best of friends.
"This is wonderful, sister. Now we're officially family! I don't know all the rules of high society yet, so you'll have to teach me. I'd hate to embarrass myself."
"Sure." I smiled. "No problem at all."
Glenda and Dad exchanged satisfied looks.
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.