Chapter 3

After my return to the Shaw household, George and Maria transferred me to the Junior High where Quincy and Hank were enrolled.

My scholastic performance was exemplary, and I had accumulated numerous accolades from various competitions.

Upon my transfer, I secured a spot in the most prestigious class due to my academic prowess.

Quincy's grades were unremarkable, relegating her to a standard class.

The situation seemed tranquil, with us pursuing our studies independently, which aligned perfectly with my preferences.

However, the evening before my first day, Maria made an unexpected announcement.

"Ruby, Quincy is aware of your academic excellence and wishes for you to be her tutor."

Maria uttered this without a hint of embarrassment.

I observed Quincy's intense stare directed at me, feeling utterly repulsed.

"But I'm in the top-tier class. Are you planning to elevate her to that level?"

In my previous existence, Quincy and I had a bitter rivalry. Maria neglected my academic progress, resulting in my placement in an ordinary high school.

This time, having finally secured this opportunity, I was reluctant to relinquish it because of Quincy.

My inquiry caught Maria off guard, as she likely hadn't anticipated such a question.

Indeed, securing a place in the Junior High's elite class wasn't achievable through connections alone.

The students in that class were genuinely talented and had earned their spots through their own merit. If Quincy possessed such capabilities, she wouldn't require my tutoring.

Therefore...

"Ruby, gaining entry to the Junior High's elite class is challenging. Couldn't you assist your sister by joining her in the general class until graduation?"

I was astounded by Maria's convoluted reasoning.

I had initially believed that by avoiding conflict with Quincy and living compliantly in their home until I turned eighteen, I could eventually break free and lead an independent life.

Never did I imagine that after my diligent efforts to enter the elite class, Maria would ask me to sacrifice my position for Quincy.

And for three whole years! In my previous life, Quincy had opportunities during every major exam but never succeeded.

In this life, she sought to drag me down with her.

"No."

I stated this single word resolutely, causing Maria momentary discomfort.

Hank couldn't contain himself.

"Ruby, remember how you got into Junior High. Mom's only asking you to help Quincy, and you're refusing!"

Quincy stood before Maria, her voice choked with tears.

"Mom, it's fine. Don't worry if Ruby doesn't want to help me."

Quincy wept profusely, while I regarded her with cold detachment.

She had a congenital asthma condition, and shortly after, her excessive crying triggered an asthma attack.

George, consumed by anger, struck me across the face.

"You ungrateful child, you feel wronged when asked to help your sister? I regret ever bringing you back!"

"Her poor grades prevent her from entering the elite class. How am I responsible for that? Why can't I feel this is unjust?"

Maria met my gaze and shouted, "Enough! Be quiet!"

Hank shoved me aside as they rushed Quincy to the car, heading for the hospital.

I was their biological daughter and sister.

Yet they favored an outsider.

In truth, it had been a considerable time since Quincy's last asthma episode.

She knew how to prevent attacks but deliberately cried to provoke one.

She never cared about academics, and her actions today were solely to remind me of my place.

Only the oblivious Shaws would treat her as a precious gem.