"And also Amelia," she began, her tone still bright but now carrying a hint of nervousness, "my 23rd birthday is next month and I'll be having a little party. I’d love for you to come. If you agree, I’ll send you all the details."
I felt the familiar wave of exhaustion wash over me. It felt like Raven was reaching for a relationship I simply didn’t want. I answered politely but curtly. "Thank you, but I don’t think I’ll be able to make it."
What happened next caught everyone off guard.
Kate spoke up, her voice carrying that fake, polite edge . "Amelia, Raven is trying here. You could at least meet her halfway."
My father turned to his wife immediately. "Kate."
I looked at her, stunned and shocked at the same time. "What?"
Kate sighed, trying to feign politeness again. "I’m just sayin
