I bypassed overly close-knit siblings and walked directly into the house.

My stepfather greeted me warmly, but I ignored him and sat down at the dinner table.

The table was laden with a sumptuous Christmas feast, but in front of me, there was only beef, the dish I ate day after day.

Even the salad in front of me was topped with chunks of beef.

“Elena, why aren’t you eating? These are all great for boosting your iron levels. You should have some more!” Lydia said, her face beaming with a sweet smile.

“Eat up. You still need to go to the hospital next month to give Lydia blood. Don’t...