STEP SIBLINGS
CHAPTER 1
The parents' car disappeared down the street on Friday afternoon. Mom leaned out the window one last time.
"Remember, no parties, no mess, and take the trash out Sunday night," she called.
Dad added, "And keep the doors locked. We will call when we get there."
Jade and Ryan stood on the driveway and waved.
"We know, Mom," Jade said. "Have fun. Drive safe."
"Be good, you two," Dad said with a smile.
"We will," Ryan answered. "Promise."
The car turned the corner and was gone. The big house suddenly felt very quiet. Only birds sang in the trees and a light wind moved the leaves.
Jade closed the front door. She turned to Ryan.
"Finally alone," she said.
"Yeah," he replied. "The whole weekend."
They looked at each other for a second, then both laughed to bre
