A letter to the post man

The next morning, I made it my plan to ask my father to arrange some time for Geynie and me to bond as sisters. It was the only step I could take to prove that she was the mysterious lady in Damian's picture. The thought consumed me as I brushed my teeth and took a quick bath. I couldn't afford to waste any time.

Knowing my dad usually left for work early, I hurried down the hall to his room. I didn't want to miss my chance to speak with him. When I reached the door, I was so focused on my plan that I forgot to knock.

The scene I walked in on stopped me in my tracks. Diana was helping my dad get ready for work. She was adjusting his tie and brushing off invisible creases on his jacket, her movements deliberate and tender. The sight was jarring, yet familiar. It immediately brought back memories of my mom doing the exact same thing for my dad. The image of her flashed in my mind, and an ache of longing settled in my chest. I had missed her terribly since I came back to the Sylvester mansion.

Both Diana and Dad turned to look at me, startled by my sudden intrusion.

"Oh, Reina, is there something you need?" my dad asked, his tone laced with concern as he glanced at me.

Diana stepped closer, her expression warm and motherly. "Dear, do you need something?" she asked sincerely.

I hesitated for a moment, feeling a bit awkward for barging in unannounced, but I quickly gathered myself. "Oh, I just wanted to talk to Dad about something," I replied, trying to keep my voice steady.

My dad's concern deepened as he nodded, always willing to listen. "Reina, go ahead and tell me what you want," he encouraged.

I had rehearsed my speech over and over again in my room before coming to him. I knew how much he wanted me to get along with Geynie, and I had to sound as convincing as possible. Taking a deep breath, I began.

"Dad, I know I just moved in here, and you've been trying really hard to help me get along with my step-sister," I said carefully, making sure to sound thoughtful. "I've seen your effort, and I can say that's exactly what I want too."

I paused, looking at him for a reaction before continuing. "Dad, can you please talk to Geynie about a trip I want to take her on? I just want to spend some time with her and bond."

As I finished, I glanced at Diana, hoping for her support. Before my dad could respond, Diana interjected, her voice filled with enthusiasm. "Sylve, honey, that's a great idea Reina has brought up. I think it's about time we help the two sisters become friends."

Her words were exactly what I needed. I couldn't help but feel grateful to Diana at that moment. I knew my dad wouldn't reject an idea she supported.

"All right," my dad said, after a moment's thought. "If that's what you want, just tell me where you two want to go, and I'll arrange it."

I felt a wave of relief wash over me. My plan was working. "Dad, I was thinking of taking Geynie to Lakeside Forestry," I said quickly. I had carefully chosen that location, knowing it would be the perfect place to test Geynie's capabilities and uncover the truth about her.

My dad considered my suggestion before nodding. "Well, I'll talk to her about it and let you know," he said, his voice firm with agreement.

Unable to contain my excitement, I smiled and hugged him. "Thanks, Dad," I said softly.

He seemed surprised by the gesture but patted my back. I knew he would follow through with his promise. As I left the room, my heart soared. One mission was complete, and I was one step closer to finding out the truth.

Downstairs, I sat at the breakfast table, though my mind was still buzzing with plans. Across from me, Alex was engrossed in his phone, a faint smile playing on his lips. I studied him for a moment, noticing how his usual serious demeanor had softened.

"Love can change a person," I said aloud, unable to resist teasing him.

Alex snapped out of his thoughts, glaring at me before standing abruptly. "I'll be in my room," he muttered, excusing himself.

I watched him leave, a small smirk on my face, but as his words hung in the air, my thoughts shifted to myself.

"Love," I whispered to myself. What about my own love life? Nath hadn't texted me since his last message apologizing for the way things had ended between us. I tried not to let it bother me, but the silence was deafening.

Why hadn't he reached out? Was he that busy? Or worse, was he trying to avoid me? The thought of him rekindling his love for Catharine crossed my mind, but I quickly shook it off. That couldn't happen. Not now.

I sighed, trying to push the thoughts aside. Nath would have to wait. Right now, my focus was on Damian I had to help him as promised .

Then, as night fell, I was certain my dad had spoken to Geynie. I knew Diana's influence would seal the deal. Geynie was sharp—too sharp to agree to my proposal without suspicion. But that's where my plan B came into play. Diana.

I had calculated every possible outcome, and Diana's insistence was enough to tip the scales in my favor. No matter how reluctant Geynie was, she wouldn't be able to resist her mother's firm encouragement.

Sure enough, late into the evening, a loud thud echoed from my door. My heart skipped a beat. I didn't need to guess who it was.

The door swung open, and there stood Geynie, her arms crossed, her expression a mixture of anger and defiance.

"What do you want from me?" she demanded, her voice sharp.

I stayed calm, meeting her fiery gaze. "All I want is to be close to you," I said softly, my tone steady.

She let out a bitter laugh, her anger bubbling just beneath the surface. "You think you can fool me like you've fooled my mother?" she snapped.

Her words stung, but I didn't let it show. "I know you want something," she continued, her eyes narrowing. "From the moment you started cozying up to my mom, I knew there was more to your little act."