My Life Is Mine
Fierce Sleeping Dog
On my birthday, my acceptance letter from Mar University finally arrived.
Mom even did something completely out of character: she ordered my favorite strawberry cake.
For a moment, I thought my parents had finally remembered that today wasn’t just the day for my brother’s medical checkup—it was my birthday, too.
However, right after I blew out the candles, Mom pulled out my brother’s acceptance letter from a local community college.
“Mason, your brother didn’t do well in his SATs, so he’ll only be able to get into a community college,” she said. “His health is poor, and he can’t handle the stress of retaking the SATs.”
Dad cleared his throat, assuming his usual stance as the head of the family.
“You two are identical twins, and you look completely alike,” he stated. “So we’ve talked it over. We’re going to have Ethan use your identification and report to Mar University in your place.”
The sweet smell of strawberries filled my nose, but it only made me feel sick to my stomach.
I stared at Dad, wondering if I had misheard him. “What about me, then?”
Mom instantly grabbed my hand.
“You’ll use Ethan’s identity to retake your senior year and try again next year,” she urged. “You’re in good health, and you’ve always gotten good grades. Isn’t it just a one-year delay?”
It was that same excuse again.
Ever since we were kids, I had to give up countless things just because my brother was frail.
But this time, this was my life, and I didn’t want to give it up anymore.