The moment Mom brings potato salad on the dinner table, it means only one thing: trouble is on the way. I'm not saying that to be dramatic or whatever, but the last time we had potato salad for dinner was the day when Dad was demoted.

Because of that, Jesse had to start working double shifts, Leanne was forced to find a second job, while I myself was also supposed to start bring something on the table; however, no-one was willing to give me a chance. Their loss, honestly.

Instead of seeing through my determination to find a part-time job, Mom only cares about the failure. She doesn't think I bring any value to this family and doesn't do anything to hide this sentiment. Sometimes, I wonder what I did to earn hers and Dad's resentment.

I guess I have to carve my own way without their help. But how? This town doesn't offer a lot of opportunity; still, I haven't got enough money to leave. Well, not that wallowing makes me richer. If anything, I sound more desperate.

As to why we have potato salad as a side for dinner tonight, I'm not sure. What if it's because we're about to be evicted? I try to point that out, but both Mom and Leanne shut me down cold with their glares.

My eyes are now glued on the plate. I don't say anything anymore. I just eat as quickly as possible so I can clear the table and disappear in my room, away from my family's near constant judgement, their disapproving looks, their harsh criticism.

My plan of spending a quiet evening for once is shattered once again. I hear loud thuds coming from the door. This is not a good sign. This means our neighbors, the Evans family, are here, along with their stupid mind games. Can't they just leave us alone? It's like they revel in disturbing us.

Guess who has to open the door and be the welcoming host? Me! That's because I'm perfect bait for their inappropriate comments and cringey puns. They know no boundaries when it comes to disrespecting people they despise.

As expected, the three of them are waiting expectantly at the threshold with their eerily gummy smiles. It's so obvious they're putting on an act. They try to pass off as good neighbors when all they've done so far is make us uneasy.

The Evans' son, Griffin, speaks first. "Good evening, little redhead. How about you let us in?" I'm about to yell at him to leave, but I can't. Mom and Dad will chew me out if I do so.

Therefore, I fight my desire of berating that brat for calling me names and let them in wearing an unconvincing fake smile. Mrs. Evans shakes her head. She isn't impressed. Typical. Has that snob lady ever appreciated anything?

Mom crosses her arms as soon as the Evans say hello. Now, what did she expect me to do, to shriek at them and threaten to sue them? This time, they knocked the door—which isn't to be granted because there have been instances of them barging in completely unannounced.

"Oh, good evening, Katie. What a surprise! What brought you and the rest here?" Mom sounds so forced as she tries to be polite and not attempt to hit bullseye on Katie Evans with the kitchen knife.

Katie snickers. "You're not funny, Casey. I know you're hiding something. I'm sure you are. We'll find out." She and her husband leave the house without saying goodbye properly. Only Griffin stays, but not to apologize for his mother's attitude.

He's still here to mock me even more. "Sweetie, is there anything you should tell me?" The more he taunts me, the more I lose my composure. I run to the bathroom and lock myself inside in order to avoid a poor figure.

However, I can hear him outside the bathroom door. He taps on it multiple times, much to my annoyance. He really doesn't know limits. He's a fucking pervert. How dare he take such confidence in making me go insane with his stupid provocations?

I finish my business inside; then, as I no longer hear Griffin make any noise, unlock the door and leave the bathroom. Big mistake. He's still here, his arms crossed and his eyes shining with such an eerie glint that makes me shiver.

I hesitate as I ask, "How long have you stood before the door?"

He smirks. "I've been here all the time. You can't run away from me, sweetie. It's pointless. Just admit it—you love me."

I recoil in disgust as he pronounces the last two words. "Excuse me? Why so? I wouldn't touch you even if you were the latest person left on Earth." My answer, instead of humbling him, makes him even more cocky—and unbearable.

"Poor little thing... Now, I have to go, or Mom will chew me out. Think of what I've just told you. Kisses." I clench my fists as he quietly leaves my house. Finally. Not that I'm going to be okay, though. Mom and Dad will surely criticize me for not sucking up to Griffin.

Fortunately for me, they don't seem to be home right now. They must be off to their favorite pub, drinking like no tomorrow and returning angrier and more desperate than before.

Even Jesse isn't home. He might be somewhere with his fiancée, Dania Tucker. They're better off away from here. I can barely stand each of them separately; together, they form an explosive mix I can't handle at all.

Well, at least I can have some time for myself without being judged or misunderstood. With Leanne, Delyla and Sadie busy watching TV, I can dedicate some time writing on my diary or drawing. There are so many things I can do by myself in my room. Too bad I'm not sure what can help me now to lift my mood up a little bit.

***

As I wake up and prepare myself for another school day, Dad stops me on my tracks to ask me, "What's your problem with Griffin Evans? He's the same age as you, so you should try and get along with him."

I deadpan. "Dad, you and Mom are in bad terms with his parents. They attack you. They mock you. How can Griffin and I get along on such a basis?"

He raises an eyebrow. "Young lady, why are you being sassy? I expect you to be nice to neighbors, not scare them off."

I insist on my point. "He left on his own. I didn't force him to leave." Since Dad is still unconvinced, I explain, "It was getting late, anyway."

He groans. "Well, I've had enough of this topic. Come on, go to school or you'll run late as usual." Says Mr. Tardiness. I don't point it out because he'll chew me out if I do; plus, for once I want to take my time as I go to school.

Not that friends or familiar faces await me: no-one likes me, not even the lousiest loser in the student body. Okay, actually the biggest loser is me. I'm not even a teacher's pet—teachers don't like me either.

This nonsensical ramble follows me on my way to school, confusing me more than ever.