"How about this—we'll invite relatives and friends over the next couple days. I'll cook, and we'll celebrate properly."
I listened from outside as they made call after call, summoning everyone even remotely related.
I tore at a cold, hard steamed bun and forced it down with cold water.
The show was about to begin. I needed my strength to witness the moment all three of them fell apart.
On the day of the party, Ryan came to the basement early. He looked down at me and kicked.
"I didn't want to let you out, but everyone knows you're back. With my status, I can't have people talking."
"Go shower, wash your hair, change into something clean. Don't embarrass me."
"Behave. You know Dad has a temper. Otherwise it won't just be the basement."
I propped myself up, found the first aid kit, and did some basic bandaging.
The relatives arrived in the afternoon. When my eldest aunt saw me, she froze.
"Alex, what happened to you?"
Dad shot me a vicious look.
"Got drunk and fell. Couldn't stop her."
"Don't mind her. Today's about Ryan—he even prepared gifts for everyone."
The family's savings had long been drained by Ryan's mess.