Claimed by the Sterling heir

The Ghost at the Table

I stood in front of the house gate for a long time. I knew my sister was already back noticing the black SUVs which lined up in front of the gate. I guess the party was starting soon and the crowd had come to visit her already. Home was a place I never found peace. I was finally back to my world...a world of favoritism hypocrisy and invisibility. It felt like an invisible force field was pushing against me trying to prevent me from entering but I had to face it.

​The front door swung open before I even reached the steps spilling golden light and laughter onto the cracked driveway. Mom stood there in a dress I’d never seen before. It was new probably borrowed or bought on credit we didn't have. She didn't even notice me when I entered. Nobody did until I walked right past them.

​The sight of the decorations made my stomach twist. We were hardly paying our bills yet here was a homecoming party for my sister. Anger flowed through me like a slow burn.

​"Aria... you're late" Mom said. I was surprised she even realized I’d stepped into the room.

​"Hey sis... don't you wanna give me a hug? I missed you" Elena said. She moved toward me but I stepped back avoiding her touch.

​"Aria what is wrong with you?" Dad asked his voice already sharp.

​"It's alright dad maybe she's just tired" Elena said playing the saint as usual.

​"Aria... how are you? You've grown so big. But of course Elena looks much prettier" Aunt Kathy said and laughed.

​"I need to go upstairs. Excuse me" I said forcing out a fake smile that felt like it would crack my face.

​"Better get ready the party is starting soon" Mom called out. She didn't wait for an answer before turning back to Elena.

​I walked upstairs in total frustration. Elena. My stepsister. The golden child who left for college abroad two years ago and somehow became even more perfect in her absence. Everyone crowded her like disciples wanting to hear about life across the ocean. There was never a day where my parents asked how my day was—especially now that Kyle Sterling is on my neck.

​Soon more guests began to arrive and the music started thumping through the floorboards. I didn't care about the party. I actually preferred staying in my room rather than meeting people who only had eyes for Elena. I was a shadow in the forgotten zone. Just then a knock sounded on my door.

​I went to open it. It was Elena. I sighed.

​"Hey my announcement will soon begin. Won't you dress up?" she asked.

​"Well then you can go ahead" I said and laid back down on the bed.

​"I heard you got the scholarship" she said softly.

​I clenched my fist immediately. That scholarship was supposed to be my escape but I knew how this story ended. I was smarter than she was yet everything I wanted always ended up in her hands.

​Mom walked in then.

"Elena darling. I want to introduce you to your father's investors. I'm sure they will be pleased to see my beautiful daughter."

​It broke my heart to witness the love they never failed to show her. Mom loved Elena more because she was the product of her love for my stepdad, meanwhile I was the "mistake." A souvenir from a cheating fiancé. She didn't despise me but she didn't love me either. I tried as hard as possible to hold back the tears. I wasn't going to show weakness in front of them. Never.

​"Aria I want you dressed up immediately. Come downstairs before the announcement starts and don't be late like always" Mom said pulling Elena toward the stairs.

​I sat on the bed and finally let the tears fall. I sobbed for a little while then forced myself to get up. After a shower and fixing my hair I stared at the mirror at my miserable self. I wasn't happy but I had no choice.

​The living room had been transformed into something unrecognizable. Silver and white streamers draped the ceiling and a rented ice sculpture glistened on the buffet table. A string quartet played soft classical music in the corner while guests in tailored suits clinked champagne flutes. I recognized a few of Dad’s business contacts—the kind of people who only showed up when there was something to gain.

​I slipped into our family table meant only for us. The smell of roasted lamb and truffle oil made my stomach turn. I hadn’t eaten since breakfast too angry to touch the food at home this morning. I listened to Dad talking so proudly about Elena. The guests laughed and showered her with compliments. Even sitting right beside her I felt like a shadow. I was the second choice the leftover.

​"Aria the speech is starting soon. Where are you going?" Elena asked as I stood up.

​"I need to use the restroom" I replied.

​"Better wrap up whatever crap you’re doing there and come back quick. The major investor is arriving soon" Dad said. His gaze never met mine and his voice didn't hold a single atom of love. I wasn't surprised. There was no way he could love me like his own blood.

​Without a word I walked away. I stayed in the restroom for a long time trying to think without crying. I was so tired of this life. I felt like running away but it seemed impossible especially now that money was so tight. I was sure that after this party we would be left completely dry.

​I waited for the speeches to end before deciding to head back out. Just as I opened the door I froze at the sight before me...