Chapter 10: Cold Words

Winter stepped into her house quietly, cautious not to make any noise that would alert her step-mom. She did not inform anyone that she was going to be late from school that day. "Where are you coming from?" came a sharp voice that knocked every wisp of air from her lungs and straightened her up. "Uh, Carla, my school had a basketball match today," Winter said nervously. "And what are you wearing?" Carla crossed her arms against her chest, eyeing down the raven-haired girl. "My top got spoiled, so a friend of mine lent me his one." Winter bit her lips out of nervousness. She did not know what type of person Carla was. Over the past few weeks, she had barely talked to Carla. Would she make a big deal out of it like her real mom would have? "Is he just a friend?" Carla asked, and Winter nodded meekly. "Are you sure he's not more than that?" Winter shook her head. "Aww, too bad. I was hoping you already got yourself a boyfriend." Winter's eyes widened in surprise. She didn't expect