Paige announces on New Year’s Day. I look up from my Cheerios and brace myself. “We’re invited to Mia’s birthday party on Saturday.” “Yeah, right.” I stick my spoon in my cereal and shake my head. “It’s a surprise party,” Paige continues. “Yes, I’m sure Mia will be surprised if we show up. Try shocked, stunned, and speechless as she reaches for her pepper spray.” “Why should Mia act like that?” Mom’s in the kitchen now, pouring herself some coffee. “Because Paige is trying to steal her boyfriend,” I say under my breath. “Erin!” Paige gives me a wounded expression. “Oh?” Mom looks curious. “I’m not trying to steal him,” Paige defends herself. “I can’t help it if Benjamin likes me. Or even if I like him.” Mom looks at me. “So why would you accuse Paige of stealing Mia’s boyfriend?” I look down at my Cheerios, pressing my lips together. Really, why not just keep my mouth shut? Except that I was kind of under the impression that part of my job on the show was to help keep my sister from self-destructing.
