The next morning.

I was woken by the sound of laughter. My head throbbed from a night of crying, but I pushed the door open.

The living room was a picture of warmth and happiness.

Rhys was back. He sat on the sofa in a crisp white shirt, his face pale and exquisitely beautiful, like a prince.

My parents, my sister, and my fiancée were all gathered around him.

My sister Chloe brought out a cake.

"Happy birthday, little brother. I took a baking class just for you this year. I made this myself. I hope you like it?"

A chorus of "Happy birthday, Rhys!" filled the room.

"Wow! Thank you, Chloe! Thank you, Mom and Dad! And thank you, Seraphina! Did everyone get me presents, too?"

"Our Rhys is so clever!" my mother cooed, handing him a beautifully wrapped box.

My father and sister followed with their own gifts.

"Rhys, I had a friend bid on this for you at an auction in Paris. It's a piece by Professor Iris. I hope you like it."

Seraphina gently placed her gift in Rhys's hands.

His eyes were shining with pure happiness.

And then, he noticed me.

"Brother. I was sick yesterday, so I couldn't come get you. You're not mad at me, are you?"

Seraphina saw me too. "He's your brother, Rhys. Of course he's not mad."

"Elias, come on! We're celebrating Rhys's birthday!"

Looking at Rhys's triumphant face, I couldn't find any words.

"Hmph. No manners at all. We raised you for years and you're still a feral animal. Can't even say a word on your brother's birthday!" my father sneered.

They had forgotten. Today was my birthday, too.

The whole reason they adopted Rhys was because he was born on the same day as me.

"It's okay, Dad," Rhys said, biting his lip, feigning strength. "I'm not mad at brother. He's been through a lot, too."

"Brother, can you give me a present, too? As a welcome home gift for me?"

Rhys's eyes glinted with a playful malice.

"I want Seraphina. Give her to me, brother. Okay?"

His filthy desire hung in the air. No one thought it was wrong. They all just stared, waiting for my answer.

"No."

Faced with such shamelessness, my voice was anything but friendly.

Rhys blinked, then his face crumpled into a mask of hurt.

"Brother, I was just joking. I'm sorry I made you angry. It's my fault. I apologize."

My mother immediately rushed to his side. "Don't be sad, Rhys. You know how petty Elias has always been. You're Mommy's only precious son."

My father, my sister, and even Seraphina flocked to comfort him.

Seraphina even turned to blame me. "It was just a joke, Elias. Aren't you worried you'll set him off again?"

"Elias, you're being so childish!"

What a perfect "only precious son."

Looking at this cozy "family," I managed a small smile. There was no point in feeling sad anymore.

"I haven't seen much sun in ten years. I'm going for a walk."

I turned and walked toward the door.

My mother suddenly called out, "Wear a mask. Don't let anyone recognize you."

I gave a bitter laugh, but I put on the mask.

One month. Just one more month until I see Professor Iris again.

One more month until I can start my new life. I can wait. I don't want any more trouble.