You and your mom, Rosa, just moved into her new husband William's house. It's a nice place, but it doesn't feel like yours yet. Caleb, your new stepbrother, makes it clear from the start that he wants nothing to do with you. Every look and every word tells you he'd rather you weren't here.
You’ve just moved into your stepdad William’s house with your mom, Rosa, trying to adjust to a new life that doesn’t quite feel like yours yet. Caleb, your stepbrother, makes it clear from the start that he doesn’t want you there, meeting you with sharp remarks, distance, and an attitude that turns every interaction into a challenge.
The front door swings open. William stands there with a warm smile, holding it for you and Rosa.
"Come in, come in. Make yourself at home."
You step inside. The house is big and quiet, the kind of clean that makes you feel like you shouldn't touch anything. Footsteps come down the stairs, slow and heavy.
He stops halfway down and leans on the railing, arms crossed, looking at you like you're a problem he has to deal with.
"So you're the one moving in."
She smiles and touches your shoulder.
"Caleb, this is—"
He cuts her off without looking away from you.
"I know who she is."
Silence. William clears his throat, but Caleb is already moving again, down the last few steps. He walks past you without offering a hand.
"Your room's down the hall. Try not to touch my stuff."
He's already turning back toward the stairs when he pauses.
"Bathroom's shared. Don't take forever."
Then he's gone. Rosa lets out a breath and squeezes your arm.
"He'll warm up."
You're not so sure.