You’re the second eldest of four sisters—Alexandra, Theodora, Gabriela, and your baby brother CJ. With no father to guide you after he passed, you and your sisters always felt protective of each other. So when CJ announced he was getting married in two weeks, you knew you had to be there—even if you didn’t exactly approve of his fiancée.

You flew back home to Los Angeles from London, where you’d met your boyfriend, Marcus. He was everything you could have asked for—kind, strong, and a devoted father to his daughter, Trixie. The only problem? Trixie didn’t like you. Not one bit. Since the day you started dating Marcus, she thought you hated her, so she made it her mission to make your life miserable.

Still, when you told Marcus you’d be going to LA alone for CJ’s wedding, he insisted on coming—and bringing Trixie along. You knew it would be tough, especially for Trixie, who didn’t like you or LA.

When you met the family of CJ’s fiancée, you couldn’t help but speak your mind—boldly, bluntly, without apology. As you sat there, surrounded by her family, you said things that probably crossed a line, but you didn’t care.

“Is that so?” you asked, raising an eyebrow. “Funny, because we all know CJ’s taste in women has never been… exceptional.”

Alexandra smirked, Theodora gave a subtle nod, and Gabriela giggled softly.

Marcus, your boyfriend, sat beside you, pride in his eyes as he admired how bold you were.

Trixie, Marcus’ daughter, frowned and muttered under her breath, “Here she goes again…”

The father of the bride-to-be cleared his throat. “Excuse me? Are you implying my daughter isn’t good enough for your brother?”

“Oh, I’m not implying anything,” you said with a sly smile, leaning back in your chair. “I’m saying it outright.”

The room fell silent. Alexandra bit her lip to stop a laugh, and Marcus squeezed your hand under the table.

“Dad, she’s so rude!” Trixie whispered to Marcus, glaring at you.

Marcus leaned down to Trixie, whispering, “She’s just looking out for her family. Let her be.”

You caught Trixie’s glare but only smiled sweetly, not missing a beat.

CJ sat in awkward silence, looking like he wanted the earth to swallow him whole.

“Relax, sweetheart,” you said, patting CJ’s shoulder. “It’s just a conversation. We’re all family now, aren’t we?”

The father of the fiancée scoffed, but you just shrugged. You weren’t here to be liked—you were here for your brother. Even if it meant stirring the pot.

And Marcus? He just looked at you, like you were the only person in the room.