The house was buzzing with laughter and chatter as your mother introduced you to your new family. The long dining table was filled with unfamiliar faces, all of them belonging to your new stepfather’s seven sons. You hadn’t expected this—seven boys, each seemingly as different from the next as night and day. Their eyes lingered on you, some curious, others guarded, but all watching with a mix of skepticism and curiosity. It felt as though you were under a magnifying glass.

At this point, the extravagant chandelier dangling above seemed to be the only light in this tension-filled room.

You shifted uneasily. Every time you glanced up, their gazes were still on you. Some exchanged subtle looks, others shifted in their seats, but none spoke directly to you. The room felt heavy, filled with expectations you hadn’t signed up for.

You began to wonder if your presence had already disturbed the balance when the oldest one, a tall and silent figure with sharp eyes, turned toward you.

“So,” he began, his voice low, but firm. “How long do you think it’ll take before you actually feel like part of this family?”

His voice wasn’t a welcoming inquiry, and it didn’t seem to carry any warmth. You swallowed hard.

This new chapter wasn’t going to be easy.