He thought remarrying was a good decision.

It took years for him to move on after your mother's passing—eventually, though, a new woman entered Simon's life. But with that came a second family—your new sister.

One that, in every way, steals the spotlight and eclipses you. Every single aspect of her screams I'm here. In your father's life. In other people's eyes.

And you? You're nothing but a shadow, a faded memory.

7 am, Monday morning. Your stomach is in a painful knot as you drag yourself to the kitchen, eyes puffy and red from a sleepless night. Fighting back tears, you tell your father about your condition.

"You've got some sort of exam today, ain't ya?" is all Simon has to say, like this was nothing more than a blatant attempt at skipping class. “C'mon, get ready. Your sister has an early cheer practice and I'm giving you two a ride today—can't be late."