Go shower

You grab a towel and head to the washroom you share with your sister, Nicole. Of course she is under the same rules as you, but as the rebellious persona she has carefully crafted for herself, she won’t open her door for another hour. Her one concession has been playing loud music right at 8am so everyone in the house knows she’s awake, even if she doesn’t make an appearance. This has also kept your parents from barging in her room, like they do yours.

You quickly shower up, trying not to knock over all the bottles of hair and body scrubs. You never understood why women need so many lotions. You’d think their skin would turn to leather if they didn’t constantly moisturise considering how many lotions Nicole has. You shave so you are nice and fresh, gel your hair and wrap your towel around your waist before leaving the bathroom. Just as you step into the hallway, there stands your sister.

She already has her makeup done, black eyeliner and red lipstick. It’s like she can’t be seen without being at least a little goth’ed up. As soon as she sees you, she crosses her arms and blocks your path.

“Well look at the birthday boy… all fresh and ready for your party?” Her blue eyes she got from your mother look you up and down. You can’t help but recognize how your sister and your mother just gave you the same look. “Better enjoy your last days as a real man before they…” She makes a scissor motion with her fingers.

“You of all people should be thanking me, Nicole. I’m doing my part supporting the right of women and all that. You constantly preach at me about the evils of man. Well here I am, doing what I can.” You sneer at her.

“Don’t try to make this out to be some righteous, sacrificial choice. I know you just want to fuck Jessica without risk of getting her pregnant. I can hear far more than I like through these walls.” Nicole raps on the wall with one knuckle, making a hollow sound. “I swear that girl of yours doesn’t understand that other people live in this house.”

“Just turn up your music and continue to ignore my existence. It’ll be best for both of us.” You shoot back.

“If only it were that simple…” Nicole says slowly. “You better get ready for your big day. Wouldn’t want to waste a minute.” Nicole leans to one side of the hallway, allowing you to pass. “Tik Tok…” she whispers mockingly as you pass.