I Married My Sister's Catfish

The day the Lawrence familyone of Chicagos most formidable dynastiesarrived at our estate to fulfill the long-standing marriage alliance, my sister, Lindsay, chose that exact moment to stage her grand confession.

I used Norahs photos to catfish a poor college student online, she sobbed, her voice trembling with a rehearsed, fragile grace. Today, hes coming to our house to propose. A man that desperate, that destitute... he is the only one I deserve to marry. Mom, Dad, Im not worthy of the Lawrence match. Please, just send me away!

She looked up through a veil of tears, a picture of stubborn, self-sacrificing innocence.

My parents, who had always loved her best, didnt hesitate. My father pointed a trembling finger at me where I sat, quietly watching the theater unfold.

Lindsay has been raised by our side for years, he declared. She has the grace, the social standing to handle a family like the Lawrences. Norah, you are the one who should marry into their house. And since Lindsay used your face for her online romance, you will be the one to marry this poor boy.

I opened my mouth to refuse. But then, three lines of glowing, translucent text materialized in the air, drifting right before my eyes.

[Oh my god, Im literally screaming! Dont let Lindsay push him to her evil sister! That poor kid is actually Hogan Lawrence, the real heir to the Lawrence empire, hiding his identity! The Charles Lawrence who came today is just a useless cousin!]

[Exactly! Hogan played poor online just to find a girl who wouldnt love him for his billions, and Lindsay is just handing him over? The evil sister is definitely going to agree. Shes greedy; she takes everything she can get!]

[Dont panic, girls! Hogan doesnt even know what the sister looks like in real life. He only came because of Norahs photo. Once they spend a few days together, hell realize shes an imposter and humiliate her! We have to watch closely and help Lindsay!]

I stared at those bizarre, floating words for three seconds.

So that was how it was.

I changed my mind. I tilted my chin up slightly, letting a quiet, compliant smile grace my lips.

Fine, I said. A poor student? Ill marry him.

Dont go thinking were being unfair, my mother chimed in, her voice dripping with a practiced, soothing condescension. You spent all those years in the foster system, Norah. A dynasty like the Lawrences is simply too high-class for you. It wouldnt suit your... background.

She was mid-sentence when my words finally registered. Waitwhat? Youre agreeing to marry him?

I nodded meekly. Yes, Mom.

My father blinked, stunned. You arent going to fight Lindsay for the Lawrence match?

No, I said, looking down to hide the cold gleam in my eyes. Im the older sister. Shes my younger sister. I shouldnt be greedy.

The collective sigh of relief in the room was almost comical.

They had expected me to scream, to tear down the curtains, to make a scene like I always did. Ever since I had been brought back to this cold mansion, my life had been a series of endless, exhausting battles. A fight every three days, a war every five. I fought Lindsay for everything.

For allowance. For the bedroom with the window. For the food on the table.

My parents always told me to be generous, to be the bigger person. They sighed and told me I was too proud, too resentful. But they conveniently ignored the facts. Lindsays monthly allowance was five thousand dollars. Mine was fifty.

Lindsay lived in the master suite with the floor-to-ceiling windows and the view of the lake. I was tucked away in the drafty, windowless maid's quarters on the first floor.

Lindsays favorite seafood platters covered the dinner table every night, even though I was severely allergic to shellfish. Every time I fought, every time I screamed, I was only begging for a shred of fairness. I had never wanted to steal anything from her.

But now? I changed my mind.

The floating text called me the evil sister. They said I was greedy, that I wanted to steal everything.

Fine. Ill show them what stealing actually looks like.

The floating comments kept scrolling frantically:

[She agreed! The evil sister actually agreed! Is she crazy? Shes trying to steal our male lead!]

[Its fine, its fine. Hogan doesnt love her anyway. Shell just live a lonely, sexless life. The moment Hogan finds out the truth, hell dump her on her face!]

[Girls, watch closely. The male lead is about to walk through the door. Hes definitely going to recognize Lindsay as his true love!]

Following the guidance of the floating text, I turned my eyes toward the foyer. Right on cue, our butler led a young man into the drawing room.

He wore a washed-out flannel shirt with frayed cuffs, and his jeans were slightly too short, exposing his ankles. Yet, his face was striking. He had sharp, deep-set features, a high brow, and a posture so impeccably straight it betrayed an innate, quiet nobility that no cheap clothes could mask.

Good afternoon, Mr. and Mrs. Morrison, he said, his voice a low, steady baritone. My name is Hogan Lane. Im Norahs boyfriend.

The floating text erupted:

[Oh my god, he is so hot! He and Lindsay are literally made for each other!]

[Ugh, its so frustrating! His real name is Hogan Lawrence! He only changed it to hide his identity. Lindsay, baby, please dont think hes actually some poor kid!]

[Yes, Lindsay! Hurry up and tell him youre the one who talked to him online, not Norah!]

No matter how frantic those floating voices were, Lindsay couldnt see them. My mother stepped in front of her, shielding her protectively, and pointed a trembling hand at me. Hogan, was it? Norah is right there.

When Hogans gaze landed on me, the floating text wailed.

[Oh no! He recognized her face! He doesnt know the girl he fell in love with online is actually Lindsay!]

[I believe in him! Hes too smart to be fooled! Our Lindsay is so sweet and pure, hell definitely realize this evil sister isnt his real soulmate!]

[Exactly! He wouldnt be so shallow that he only cares about a face. He fell in love with Lindsays beautiful soul!]

I watched as Hogans ears flushed a faint, endearing pink. I tilted my head and let my lips curve into a slow, deliberate smile.

These floating commenters were far too imaginative.

From where I was standing, it looked like this male lead of theirs was simply utterly, hopelessly captivated by my face.

Without a shred of shame, and completely ignoring the furious red text screaming in front of my face, I stepped forward and wrapped my hand around Hogans arm.

Hogan, I murmured, looking up at him. You actually came for me.

Every muscle in his arm tensed beneath my touch. He swallowed hard, a low, raspy Yeah escaping his throat.

Seeing how nervous he washis free hand twitching as if he didnt know where to put itI couldnt help but let out a soft laugh.

Lindsay peeked out from behind our mother, her voice laced with a subtle, toxic sweetness. Well, it looks like Norah really does have a soft spot for the underprivileged. You two actually look... perfect for each other.

Her passive-aggressive congratulations were so blatant that even our parents shifted uncomfortably. Fearing she might provoke me into throwing a tantrum and ruining this convenient arrangement, my mother pulled Lindsay back by the arm.

Lindsay rolled her eyes, offering a lazy, insincere apology. Sorry, Norah. Im just so jealous that youve found your... perfect match.

She put a sharp, deliberate emphasis on your, as if marking a boundary.

I knew exactly what she was doing. She was quietly gloating.

Like the floating commenters, she believed that even if she let this poor boy go for now, he would eventually discover the truth and come crawling back to her. She thought I was nothing but a thief destined to be caught.

My smile faded slightly, but my grip on Hogans arm tightened. Sensing the sudden shift in my mood, Hogans brows knit together. He took a subtle step forward, his broad shoulder cutting off my familys view of me, shielding me completely.

Lindsay merely scoffed at his protective gesture. She turned her head toward the foyer, practically vibrating with anticipation for the real Lawrence heir to arrive.

When Charles Lawrence walked in, Lindsay looked ready to throw herself into his arms.

He was dressed in a bespoke Italian suit, a million-dollar watch gleaming on his wrist, looking every bit the ruthless corporate executive. But the floating text was already sighing in collective despair.

[Why is Lindsay being so warm to Charles? This is painful to watch!]

[Charles is just a parasite! Hes a trust-fund playboy who has nothing to do with the actual Lawrence conglomerate. Lindsay, turn around and look at our real male lead!]

[Yes! If she doesnt fix this now, the evil sister is going to walk away with the prize!]

[Wait, look! Charles looks like he recognized Hogan! Oh my god, if Hogans identity is revealed now, Lindsay will definitely take him back!]

I looked up. Charles had walked into the room with an air of arrogant authority, but the moment his eyes fell on Hogan, his face went utterly pale. He took a step forward, his mouth opening to speak, but Hogan gave him a single, ice-cold shake of his head.

Charles froze mid-step, his boots practically glued to the floor.

Lindsay, whose eyes had been glued to Charles, flicked her gaze between the two men. Charles? Do you... do you know Hogan?

Terrified of saying the wrong thing under Hogans piercing gaze, Charles quickly stammered, We... weve crossed paths once. Briefly.

Lindsays expression curdled into instant disdain. Oh, really? I suppose someone like Charles gets hounded by all sorts of people trying to climb the social ladder. Youre far too polite, Charles.

Charles cleared his throat, sweating slightly. Lets just... lets not talk about that. Arent we here to discuss the engagement?

Lindsays sour mood instantly vanished, replaced by a triumphant grin. Our parents, too, beamed with pride.

We were thinking of holding the engagement party on the eighteenth of next month, my father said, eager to please. Weve already booked the Grand Ballroom at the Grand Regent. Well be inviting every major player in Chicago. We certainly wont let either of our families lose face.

Lindsays eyes-darted to me, where I stood silently in the corner with Hogan.

Dad, Mom, she said, her voice dripping with mock concern. What about Norahs engagement party? When is she having hers?

My parents cast a dismissive, impatient glance at Hogans simple clothes.

Norah only recently came back to us, my mother said coldly. She doesnt have many social connections. A small dinner at that diner on the North Side should do. Three tables is more than enough. Norah, you dont have an issue with that, do you?

The floating comments mocked me relentlessly:

[Hahaha, the evil sister must be dying inside! A cheap diner engagement compared to a Grand Regent ballroom! Crushed!]

[And Hogan isnt even defending her. He probably knows she doesnt deserve anything better.]

I looked at Hogan. His head was slightly bowed, his expression unreadable.

Its fine, I said softly, my voice clear in the quiet room. As long as Im with Hogan, I dont care where we celebrate.

Hogans head snapped up. He stared at me, his dark eyes wide with a quiet, arresting intensity. I offered him a small, reassuring smile and gently squeezed his hand.

He looked at me for a long moment, as if making a silent, monumental decision. Then, he turned to my parents.

Mr. and Mrs. Morrison, he said, his voice quiet but carrying an undeniable weight. I will not let her be humiliated. I will give her the absolute best, within all my power.

Lindsay covered her mouth, letting out a sharp, mocking giggle. Mr. Lane is such a gentleman. Good luck with your unforgettable diner party, Norah. I truly hope its... memorable.

I didnt let Lindsays petty taunts get to me. I simply led Hogan up the stairs to my room.

My sister is always like that, I said as I opened the door. Dont take it to heart.

Hogan was looking around the sparse, cramped room. There was nothing but a twin bed, a worn-out wooden desk, and a single closet. It looked more like a storage closet than a daughters bedroom. A flash of sharp pain and anger crossed his features.

Have you always had to live like this? he asked, his voice tight. Compromising on everything?

I let out a bitter, quiet laugh. Its not really a compromise when you dont have a choice. My parents love Lindsay. Even if I fought, Id never win.

The tenderness in his eyes deepened, softening the hard lines of his face.

Why didnt you ever tell me before? he whispered.

I didnt answer. The floating text, however, was in a frenzy:

[Oh my god, she is totally playing the victim to get his sympathy! Hogan, dont fall for it! Shes just trying to seduce you!]

[When is this evil sister going to get exposed? Im literally going to pop a vein. Can Hogan please find out shes an imposter and throw her out already?]

To their absolute horror, over the next few days, Hogan didnt expose me. If anything, we only grew closer.

The burner phone Lindsay had used to chat with him had been tossed onto my desk like a piece of trash. But Hogan didnt care about the phone. He came to see me every single day, riding a beat-up Vespa, waiting at the gates to take me out.

Every time Lindsay saw that Vespa, she made sure to laugh. Today was no exception.

She stood on the front porch, watching Hogan hand me a helmet. Rolling her eyes, she raised her voice so the gardeners could hear.

Look at you two, so sweet! Love on a Vespa, how incredibly romantic. She smirked. Are you going to ride that to your engagement party too?

She turned to Charles, who was standing beside her looking deeply uncomfortable, and purred, Charles, honey, Im not like my sister. Im not that hopelessly naive. If you dont pick me up in a Maybach on our big day, Im not getting in.

She was too busy preening to notice the sheer terror flitting across Charless face.

I ignored her entirely, stepping onto the back of the Vespa and wrapping my arms tightly around Hogans lean waist.

Leaning my cheek against his broad back, I murmured, You know, you dont have to ride all the way here to pick me up every time. I can meet you there.

Hogan was silent for a long moment as the engine idled.

Norah, he said quietly. Are you embarrassed to be seen with me?

The floating text went strangely quiet for a second.

[Why does he sound so vulnerable? This is... weird.]

[Uh, guys, dont hate me, but... does it look like Hogan is actually falling for the sister?]

[No, absolutely not! Hes meant for Lindsay! He only feels this way because he thinks shes his online girlfriend!]

I ignored them, shaking my head against Hogans back.

No, I whispered. I just think its a long ride for you. I dont want you to tire yourself out, only to come here and be ridiculed by my family.

The tension in Hogans shoulders instantly melted. I couldnt see his face, but when he spoke, his voice was thick with emotion.

Norah. I promise you, when you marry me, I will never let you lose.

The comment section cracked wide open:

[Wait, what? Did he just confess to her?]

[Hogan, wake up! Lindsay is right there watching you!]

[Honestly, I kind of ship them now. Theyre kind of cute.]

[Are you blind? The sister is so manipulative, she doesnt deserve him!]

Their constant chatter meant nothing to me. But before I could reply to Hogan, Lindsay let out a sharp, mocking laugh from the porch.

A boy with nothing to his name sure knows how to make big promises.

Lindsay strolled down the steps, her iced latte swirling in her hand. As she passed Hogan, she deliberately tilted her wrist, letting the cold, brown liquid splash all over his clean flannel shirt.

Oh my goodness, I am so, so sorry!

Her mouth formed an apology, but her eyes danced with absolute malice. That shirt doesnt look very expensive, does it? Ill buy you a replacement. Is a hundred bucks enough?

She pulled a crisp bill from her designer wallet and let it flutter carelessly to the dirt at Hogans feet.

Hogans face remained entirely blank as he brushed the wet fabric off his cuff. No need.

Lindsay shrugged. Well, arent you gracious. Thank you for being so understanding.

As she turned to walk away, she muttered under her breath, Pathetic.

The word was quiet, but in the morning air, Hogan and I heard it perfectly.

My chest tightened with sudden, white-hot anger. I stepped forward, blocking her path.

Apologize.

Lindsay blinked, clearly shocked that the quiet, compliant daughter who had tolerated her abuse for months was suddenly showing teeth.

But she had looked down on meand on Hoganfor too long to back down.

She scoffed, What did I say that wasnt true? He is pathetic.

My parents, hearing the commotion at the gates, hurried down the driveway. Before they even knew what was happening, my mothers voice rang out in sharp accusation.

Norah, what on earth are you throwing a tantrum for now?

I was so used to their immediate, unquestioning blame that it didnt even sting anymore. But Hogans face darkened instantly.

Lindsay has repeatedly insulted and humiliated me, Hogan said, his voice dropping into a dangerous, icy register. And you, as her parents, dont even care to ask who is in the wrong?

It was a remarkably bold statement for a supposedly poor student to make to a wealthy patriarch.

My parents faces flushed red, then pale, before they turned their fury right back onto me.

Look at the kind of man youve brought into this family! Just as petty and defensive as you are!

I ignored them, reaching down to take Hogans hand, lacing my fingers firmly through his.

Hogan is a good man, I said, standing tall beside him. Youre just too blind to see it.

Hogans grip on my hand tightened, hard enough to bruise, but I didnt care.

My parents practically vibrated with rage, but there was nothing they could do. I had already agreed to the match, and they couldnt afford to lose the Lawrence connection Charles provided.

I didnt want to waste another second on them. I pulled Hogan toward the Vespa, carefully inspecting the dark stain on his chest.

Lets go. Ill wash it for you when we get back.

Hogan shook his head, a soft look returning to his eyes. Its fine. Dont worry about something so trivial.

Its not trivial, I said, looking straight into his eyes. Anything that concerns you is important to me.

Hogan stared at me, his chest rising and falling. He seemed to be absorbing the weight of my words, processing a feeling he had never experienced before.

Suddenly, he leaned in, his breath warm against my ear as a deep flush crept up his neck.

Thank you, Norah. Youre the most wonderful girl Ive ever met.

The floating text, which had been silent for some time, suddenly flickered back to life with a few quiet lines.

[As much as I hate the sister... she and Hogan are actually kind of sweet.]

[Yeah, me too. Honestly, Lindsay was being a total brat just now, and the parents are incredibly toxic. I cant imagine how miserable the sister must have been if she actually cared about them.]

[But Hogan is supposed to be Lindsays! She shouldnt have stolen him...]

[Lindsay literally threw him away because she thought he was poor! Did you guys forget that? She catfished him, used her sisters face, and then forced Norah to take her place. She thought she was being clever, and now shes mad it backfired.]

The tide was slowly starting to turn.

The commenters were beginning to see through Lindsays fragile, victimized facade, starting to feel a shred of empathy for the evil sister.

I rested my cheek against Hogans warm back, listening to the rapid, steady thrumming of his heart. I let a small, private smile play on my lips.

I had taken him. And Lindsay was about to find out exactly what that meant.