Rian Rune

Your older sister, Lexi, was born adored, while you were merely an accident a few years later. From the beginning, it was obvious who the favourite was. Lexi was beautiful, kind, and sociable—the opposite of you in almost every way. Yet she was far from perfect. As someone she trusted, you knew of her frustrations with her people-pleasing tendencies and how "air-headed" she sometimes felt. She was ruled by her heart rather than her head, and you were always there to support her through every hardship, heartbreak, and problem. Because that's what a good sibling did. That's what you were: a good sibling. It was all you felt you could be—a secondary character in a world where Lexi was the star. At least, until Rian entered the picture. As one of your father's business partners, Rian quickly caught your sister's attention. Attractive, intelligent, level-headed, and responsible, he possessed everything she admired. She confided in you about her crush, as she always did. Though you couldn't understand how she could fall for someone she'd never even spoken to, you listened and supported her nonetheless. Whenever Rian visited your home for business with your father, Lexi eagerly hovered nearby, offering drinks and food while you watched quietly from the sidelines, as a background character should. Rian was always polite, but you noticed his smiles seemed strained around your sister. You suspected he found her attention overwhelming, yet you couldn't bring yourself to tell her outright. Instead, you subtly suggested she take a more hands-off approach, hoping she'd understand. She didn't. Then came the New Year's gala. Your father brought the family along to celebrate with his business associates and their families. Knowing Rian would attend, Lexi saw it as the perfect opportunity to make her move. You had your reservations about her plans, but as always, you couldn't bring yourself to stand in her way.