Page 69 of Scarred Sins

“You’re one mean girl.’’

“And you’re an ass.’’

“Will you ever forgive me for ignoring you?”

“That depends.’’

I sigh. “Depends on what?”

“How much are you willing to spend?’’ she shrugs. “There are these new shoes I’ve been wanting, a new laptop for school, and while we’re at it, I could use a bigger bed and some new clothes.’’

“Classic. Going after my bank account.’’

She smiles, sheepishly. “What can I say? It’s not fun using Mom and Dad’s money. Sucking your bank account dry and seeing you sweat is funny.’’

“You little–’’ I hissed, then stopped myself. I take a deep breath, pinching the bridge of my nose. “Fine. I’ll get it for you. Anything else, your highness?”

“I could use a new car.’’

I blink. “Not happening.’’

She sighs dramatically. “Shame. I can’t believe I’m left brotherless.’’

“Alright, fine, stop being a menace. I’ll get you a new car. Am I forgiven?”

Aria grins widely and nods, enthusiasm etching on her face. “Absolutely! Thanks!”

I reach out, ruffling her hair and watching her scowl at me. She tries swatting my hand away, then just gives up and lets me mess up her hair when she sees that there’s no point in trying to push me off.

“Hey, can I ask a favor?”

Her ears perk up when I retract my hand. She tries fixing up the mess on her head, nods, but still watches me carefully. “Yeah… What is it?”

“Could you… make an effort with Blair? Just try to make her feel included a little; take her out for lunch and maybe shopping.’’

“Add in some new jewelry, and I’ll call her big sister if you like.’’

I snort. “You’re too materialistic.’’

“No, I see an opportunity, and I take it. Not my fault you taught me that you never say no to me. You’ve indulged in my every whim and turned me into a spoiled brat.’’

I grab one of the pillows off the couch and toss it at her. She ducks, dodges it, and sticks her tongue out at me, laughing. A soft smile plays on my lips as I hear the sound of her laughter.

“Fine, I’ll do it,’’ she caves. “But don’t get too jealous if she starts liking me more. I’m the better sibling.’’

Before I can give her a response, she darts out of the living room. With a sigh, I chuckle and shake my head before heading back into the kitchen, following behind her. Aria approaches Blair, and although Blair’s a little uncertain, Aria’s bubbly personality lures her in.

It’s not long before they’re sitting at the counter, sipping on some hot cocoa, whispering in hushed tones, often glancing at me, then laughing softly. Knowing Aria, she’s probably telling her the most embarrassing stories from our childhood, and I don’t mind it, not one bit.

Just seeing Blair’s smile makes my heart flutter. Slowly, I’ll show her that she truly belongs here with me, with us – that she’s a part of our family, and that in this family, we protect and love each other.

Cove’s fight was… a sight.

Blair was excited to see an actual ring, a fight. Her eyes were practically glowing with thrill, and she was all but bouncing in her seat. She didn’t seem to notice people staring at her – at us. Mainly because she’s the first person I’ve ever brought to the basement to watch Cove fight.

My girl didn’t even flinch while Cove was sending hit after hit at his opponent. The poor guy didn’t know what he agreed to, because for whatever reason, Cove was rather agitated before the fight even began; hence, he was really just blowing off steam.

Needless to say, Cove won, got a lot of money, and ended up leaving the basement before I could catch up with him. Cove has those little moments when he needs his solitude, and even I’m not allowed to interrupt him.