[DAPHNE]
I couldn't believe my eyes. My heart twisted, but not for the reason it should have. It wasn’t jealousy or even betrayal that stung; it was humiliation. Nicki, my sister, always managed to steal the spotlight, even when it wasn’t hers to take.
“Daphne…” Nicki’s voice was small and hesitant as she stepped closer. Her usual confidence was nowhere to be found.
“I’m sorry… I… I must’ve… b—” Her words faltered before she bolted past me, disappearing into the house.
That left just Zach and me, standing awkwardly. He turned to me, his expression panicked. “Daphne, it’s not what you think. I swear. Nicki came to me, and I—”
I raised my hand, cutting him off. “It’s okay, Zach.”
My voice was calm, too calm, and I forced a tight smile. “You don’t owe me any explanation.” My to
