The Tower Reversed: Back to 18 (Venus) novel Chapter 8

**TITLE: One Step Changes Everything**
**By Ruby Parker**
**Chapter 8: The Crazy B*tch**

As Percy stormed toward her, his face twisted in a mask of fury, Venus felt the weight of memories crashing down on her. It was impossible not to recall the past, the moments that had shaped their tumultuous relationship.

Percy, at just fifteen, was the youngest of her siblings, a half-brother who had always been the darling of the family. He was the seventh in line, the one everyone adored for his charming demeanor and flawless grades. He wore a perpetual smile that seemed to light up the room, a façade that concealed the truth lurking beneath.

But in the shadows of their home, Percy transformed into a different person altogether—a rebellious teen who gravitated toward the wrong crowd. Venus could still picture the day she stumbled upon him in the woods, locked in a passionate embrace with a girl. That moment shattered the illusion of his perfect image, revealing the stark contrast between who he pretended to be and who he truly was.

From that day forward, everything changed. His once-friendly demeanor toward her shifted dramatically. In public, he would greet her with a bright smile and call her “Venus,” but in private, he treated her like a mere servant, pushing her to her limits with endless chores and demands.

Whenever he snuck out to bars, it was her responsibility to wait outside, anxiously keeping watch. And during his countless dates with various girls, she found herself trapped in the role of lookout, even suffering physical abuse from one of his angry ex-girlfriends. It was a twisted game, and every time trouble brewed at home, he conveniently shifted the blame onto her.

In those days, Venus was naïve. She believed he was just a misguided child, and as his older sister, it was her duty to be patient and understanding. She held onto the hope that he would eventually mature. But that patience only led to the most profound betrayal she could have ever imagined.

The year she decided to leave home was the same year Percy was caught smuggling illegal items. Newly turned eighteen and desperate to avoid a criminal record, he had no qualms about pinning the blame on her.

The memory of that fateful night was etched in her mind. The entire Burns family had gathered, demanding that she take the fall for him. Her brothers, with pleading eyes, argued that Percy was still young, that one mistake shouldn’t ruin his future. It was in that moment, as she stood there facing their collective judgment, that she finally realized the harsh reality of her family. But by then, it was far too late. The Burns had made their decision, and she was sent to jail.

Her days behind bars were a blur of darkness and despair. The other inmates tormented her, pushing her to the brink of surrender. Just when she thought all hope was lost, a mysterious figure emerged from the shadows, offering her salvation. This enigmatic savior provided the police with undeniable evidence of Percy’s crimes, clearing her name and allowing her to walk free.

Percy, however, was not so fortunate. He faced the consequences of his actions as soon as he turned eighteen. By the time the Burns attempted to confront her, Venus had already severed ties, leaving behind a life that had only brought her pain. She was broken, but she was free.

With those memories flooding her mind, Venus wasted no time. In a swift motion, she raised her hand and struck Percy across the face, a visceral reaction to the brother who had nearly destroyed her life.

Percy stood there, momentarily stunned, disbelief etched across his features.

Smack!

She hit him again, this time with more force, and he snapped back to reality, rage igniting within him. “Venus, how dare you hit me? I’ll tear you to pieces!” His voice was a tempest of fury as he lunged at her, ready to unleash his wrath.

But Venus was quicker, moving with the precision of a seasoned fighter. As she sidestepped his charge, her fingers jabbed sharply into his shoulder.

“Arghh!” Percy yelped, his arms going numb, the heat of her strike igniting a fire in his cheeks.

“Dudes! Don’t just stand there!” he shouted at his friends, panic seeping into his voice. “Get her!”

His gang of teenage delinquents, emboldened by his call, seized pipes and blades, rushing forward with a reckless abandon.

Yet, Venus remained unshaken. With a swift motion, she yanked Percy by the hair, snatching the lighter and cigarettes from his grip. As she flicked the lighter open, a wicked smile spread across her face.

“Did any of you know what the most painful way to die is?” she asked, her voice dripping with an eerie calmness.

Without waiting for a response, she continued, “My guess is burning alive. When the flames start, your body fat becomes the perfect fuel. You stay conscious the whole time, watching your skin and flesh burn inch by inch until you’re gone.” Her tone was almost cheerful, a stark contrast to the horror of her words.

The gang froze, paralyzed by fear. Her demeanor, her words, everything about her sent chills down their spines. No one dared to move, all eyes wide with disbelief.

Percy, now visibly terrified, stammered, “Keep that cigarette away! Don’t light it! I don’t want to die. Venus, I’m sorry, okay?”

What was wrong with him? She had completely lost it!

She had once obeyed his every command without question—what had changed?

A girl from the countryside, daring to stand up to him? It was unfathomable.

Venus caught the glimmer of defiance in his eyes and recognized that he wasn’t truly remorseful. He was merely frightened that she might actually follow through.

“What exactly are you sorry for?” she asked, her voice icy.

Percy faltered, “I-I shouldn’t have yelled at you.”

“And?” she pressed, her gaze unwavering.

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