The Price of Being Second Best Chapter 2

One day before the SAT registration fee deadline.

I still couldn't reach my parents for money.

Because they were "busy."

Yet, my sister and brother just updated their social media.

Sister's post: A photo of her in a new dress, smiling brightly.

Mom stood beside her, hand gently on her shoulder.

They looked so alike, gentle and elegant.

Caption: [Thanks Mom for the pre-exam gift, love you~]

Brother's post: On the basketball court, shooting hoops, Dad coaching him.

Both wearing brand-new matching sports gear.

Caption: [Dad said gotta blow off steam before the big test, can't have too much pressure.]

I stared at the photos for a long time.

So they weren't busy.

They were just busy for me, the extra daughter.

A familiar bitterness spread in my chest.

I should have known. I was the surplus, wasn't I?

Just like the day of the divorce.

In court, the judge asked about custody.

Mom didn't hesitate: "I want Grace."

She looked at my sister with adoration. "She's sensible and obedient, just like me. She'll go far."

Dad chimed in quickly: "I'm definitely taking Lucas."

He patted my brother's shoulder, eyes shining with expectation. "He's got athletic talent, he'll follow in my footsteps and be a cop."

The judge flipped through the files, frowning. "What about the other child?"

My parents froze.

"Oh, right, Zoe."

Then came the hot potato game.

"I already took one, can't afford two."

"She's a Lin, she should stay with the Lin family!" Mom argued.

"Zoe's a girl, you're her mom, she should be with you!"

"My work is too demanding, the hospital needs me, I don't have time for two kids..."

I sat in the corner, watching them fight to not take me.

Finally, I broke the stalemate.

"I can live alone, as long as I have living expenses."

And so began my life of solitude and hunger.

Looking at the class group chat, classmates posting screenshots of their paid fees.

Only I hadn't paid. The class rep reminded me again.

No fee, no SATs.

I bit my lip, stomach cramping again.

One bun today. My balance couldn't even afford two.

But hunger didn't matter now.

The registration fee wasn't just about food; it was my only way out.

If I couldn't take the test, my life was over.

I had to get that money.

Since they ignored my calls and texts, I'd go to them.

Mom's place was closest to school.

I decided to start with her.