Lizas POV Dressed in a sleek black sweater and casual canvas shoes, I stepped out of the house with a mission in mind. It's been a while since I visited the musical instrument store that operated under Sinclair Corporation. So I had to use my sharp memory to figure out my way to the store. As soon as I got there, the familiar sight brought back a wave of nostalgia washing through me. I walked in. When I got to the guitar area, I reached for one hanging on the wall and ran my fingers across its strings. The chords hummed softly, filling the air with a fleeting melody. But the moment of peace was interrupted by a shrill, unwelcome voice. Brandon, isn't that my sister? What is she doing here?At the voice, I sighed inwardly and pulled the hood of my sweater further over my head. Fate really has a way of throwing people I least wanted to meet into my path. Again, I heard Serenas voice. Why would she come here? Is she trying to buy something? I heard Dad canceled her credit cards a few days ago after getting upset. Brandon, let's go check. If she likes something, we could give it to her. I scoffed, unable to keep up with the pretense of not hearing her. Turning around to face them both, I asked. Give it to me? What makes you think I'd need your charity? This shop technically belonged to me. Why would I ever need Serenas pity? Caught off-guard, Serenas expression faltered. Her eyes shimmered with tears, as though she were the victim here. Sister, I didn't mean it like that. I just wanted to help. Her voice was carefully laced with vulnerability as it trembled. I know you don't have any money right now and this store happens to belong to me. If there's anything you want, just take it. It's really okay. The calculated sweetness of her words was meant to paint me as someone ungrateful, unwilling to accept a generous offer. But hidden beneath all that innocence was the subtle jab that Serena owned the shop and by extension, she had the power over me here. I narrowed my eyes, a wry smile tugging at the corners of my lips. I remained silent for a moment, letting the tension settle between us. Serena had not only insulted me but also attempted to shift the narrative in her favor, casting herself as the benevolent, concerned sister while subtly revealing our relationship to people within earshot. Murmurs of disdain rippled through the shop, drawing glances towards me. Isn't that the Sinclair familys eldest daughter? The one who grew up in the countryside?A woman whispered, but loud enough for others to hear. She really has that countryside vibe. So unsophisticated. How shameless,another customer muttered. I saw her touching the guitar earlier. One of them is the one I wanted to buy. What bad luck? A female customer dramatically waved her hand as though dismissing an offensive odor. I don't want that guitar anymore, not after she had touched it. I remained composed but I let my fingers trail deliberately over the guitar strings again, plucking a soft melody. Bad luck. Truly bad luck.I agreed with them, my voice calm and sharp. Before I could say more, Serena quickly interjected, her tone laced with feigned concern. Sister, don't misunderstand. That's not what the customer means. I watched Serena turn to the last woman with a polite smile as she continued in an apologetic tone. I heard you're interested in the guitar? How about I offer you a discount? I can sell it to you for a lower price.The womans irritation melted away at the mention of a discount. The instruments in the shop were known for their exceptional quality and a single guitar could cost tens of thousands. A discount was an enticing offer. Really?The woman beamed with excitement. That would be wonderful! Thank you, Miss Serena. You truly know how to do business, unlike some people. She cast a disdainful glance my way. Serenas delicate smile widened and she gestured for a sales assistant to prepare the sale. Just as the assistant was about to proceed, I stepped forward, blocking her way. What exactly are you saying, Serena?I locked eyes with her as I demanded. Are you suggesting that because I touched this guitar, it's now tainted? That it carries bad luck? Is that what you believe? Her smile faltered as her lips parted in hurried explanation. Sister, you misunderstood. That's not what I meant at all. My patience wore thin as I scoffed internally. Misunderstood? Misunderstanding wasn't a word I was willing to tolerate. Brandon finally stepped forward, positioning himself protectively in front of Serena. His expression was one of irritation as he looked at me. Liza, don't be unreasonable. Serena is clearly trying to help you. You're the one causing trouble and now she has to clean up after you. What more do you want? His tone carried an air of condescension, as though he was scolding a misbehaving child. Serena tugged lightly at his sleeves. Brandon, it's fine. Don't be so harsh on Liza. She…she just doesn't understand how these things work. The customers surrounding us began to chime in, their verbal attacks on me.